Leeds Rhinos legend Kevin Sinfield has been endorsed for a role with England's rugby union side by the country's World Cup-winning coach, Sir Clive Woodward. The national side are on the lookout for a new coach after Eddie Jones had his contract terminated by the Rugby Football Union on Tuesday.
That man is expected to be current Leicester Tigers coach Steve Borthwick, who has been long earmarked as a future national team coach. But Woodward believes the logical step would be for Borthwick to bring his Tigers coaching staff with him into the England setup.
That includes Sinfield, who is currently defence coach of the Premiership side.
Read more: Karl Fitzpatrick backing Warrington Wolves squad changes as he sets aim on competing again
Writing in the Daily Mail, Woodward said: "I knew Borthwick as a player and he must be given the full support and resources to ensure there are no excuses — the one thing for sure is the media bandwagon around Jones will disappear with Steve — what you see is what you get and that alone will be a breath of fresh air. I have no doubt every single English player will look forward to working with him and his team.
"He must be allowed to bring in his own coaching team, and if I was him I would definitely bring Kevin Sinfield over from Leicester. He’s the only defence coach out there who can soften the blow of missing out on Shaun Edwards."
It is high praise indeed from Woodward, with Sinfield earning rave reviews for the work he has done with Leicester since he switched codes to join the Tigers.
However, it remains to be seen whether Sinfield will be given a role as part of Borthwick's England setup if, as expected, he is given the role.
Read next
Former Bradford Bulls and Dewsbury Rams prop banned after positive drugs test
Super League and RFL appoint director as sport's realignment takes another positive step
Newcastle Knights confirm the signings of two young Super League talents
'Dream job' - Leeds Rhinos' Matt Cook outlines plans after bagging General Manager role
