Tuilagi set to miss Scotland clash – Jones
Eddie Jones has branded Scotland "niggly" ahead of a Calcutta Cup showdown that will be missed by Manu Tuilagi.
Tuilagihasbeenruledoutof the Guinness Six Nations trip to Edinburgh because of the groin injury sustained during last weekend's 24-17 defeat in France which kicked off their title quest in deflating fashion.
Jones promised "brutal physicality" in Paris in comments that backfired because of the controversy they caused across the Channel and the tame performance delivered on the pitch. Undeterred, the headcoachhastakenearlyaim at Scotland by claiming that history shows they attempt to provoke England.
"Scotland are a niggly side. Our historical record against Scotland is interesting - over 80 per cent wins in England but only 50 per cent at Murrayfield," Jones said.
"It's about having good focus, good attention to the moment, good clarity about your game-plan, being well prepared.Andwe'llstartwiththat today (Tuesday)."
Two years ago England were thumped 25-13 at Edinburgh in a defeat that exposed glaring breakdown deficiencies and launched a five-Test losing run that placed Jones' future in doubt. Asked for an example of "niggly" conduct, Jones replied: "The dressingroomscenetwoyearsagowhen they tried to goad a couple of our players. And they were successful.
"Historically they've done that through the ages. That's the way they stay in the game and they're good at it.
"The Murrayfield environment helps them but you've got to be good enough to stay focused. Composure is always important in rugby, but probably more so at Murrayfield."