Five men who could become England head coach
After the departure of Stuart Lancaster from his role as England head coach we take a look at some potential replacements.
Michael Cheika
The current Australia coach led his team to the the World Cup final recently, improving his kudos inside the game after reinvigorating a struggling Wallabies squad. Reportedly sounded out recently about taking the job as Lancaster looked precarious but is likely to be wary of coming into another role where a complete overhaul is needed.
Shaun Edwards
Although a rugby league legend on the pitch, Edwards has built a great reputation in union working in the Wales backroom staff. The Englishman is an assistant coach under Warren Gatland who has mentored the former Wasps defence and backs coach. His appointment would be a bold move but with potential to be a huge success.
Jim Mallinder
Success has become the norm at Northampton Saints under Mallinder, as the team continuously progress under his stewardship. Last year he signed a five-year deal with the club he joined as head coach in 2007. A lack of international experience could count against him, having enjoyed short spells as an England academy and Saxons coach.
Jake White
The South African led his country to World Cup victory in 2007, something which makes him stand out from the other candidates. At the moment he is in France coaching Montepelllier but could be tempted to cross The Channel for a return to international rugby after a lengthy spell away.
Eddie Jones
Although he has just taken up a new role in South Africa with the Stormers the former Japan coach might be tempted to quickly depart in favour of leading the Red Rose. Jones led the relative minnows of Japan to three World Cup wins, something previously unheard of. He also took Australia to a World Cup final in 2003. He recently said: "If England approached me, would I listen to them? Of course I would but whether the RFU part ways with Stuart Lancaster is a big and difficult decision."