The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has stressed the importance of improving its “wraparound care” for England internationals in the wake of Owen Farrell’s decision to make himself unavailable and a stark warning that other players are likely to follow suit.
Outlining details of the enhanced “hybrid” contracts set to be offered to up to 25 players as part of the RFU’s effort to relaunch professional rugby in England next season, the director of performance, Conor O’Shea, revealed the union is examining ways to be “best in class” at supporting its players.
