Rugby: John Mitchell eyed for England defence role

John Mitchell. Photo / Getty

Kiwi rugby coach John Mitchell, currently the Blue Bulls executive of rugby, has emerged as the latest candidate to become England's new defence coach.

The Rugby Football Union has so far refused to comment upon reports emerging from South Africa that Mitchell has been approached to fill the vacancy left by new Harlequins director of rugby Paul Gustard.

On Thursday, England head coach Eddie Jones confirmed that he wants to appoint both an attack and defence coach before the start of his next training camp on September 23. Australian Scott Wisemantel acted as attacking consultant for the summer tour to South Africa.

"It is all in train," Jones said. "If you've ever been involved in an employment contract situation there's never a set timeline. But we're confident both the coaches will be in place for when we need them."

After the RFU swooped to prise Jones from the Stormers after the 2015 World Cup, there would be a certain sense of deja vu about any approach for Mitchell, who was only appointed as Bulls coach in May after a short spell in charge of the USA.

Reports in South Africa suggest that Mitchell is already at loggerheads with his board over his demands for a bigger playing budget and has not signed a contract extension.

In a tweet, the Bulls confirmed that an unspecified approach for Mitchell has been made.

"The Blue Bulls Company (BBCo) would like to confirm that John Mitchell informed us that interest was shown in his services. No formal offer has however been received," the Bulls said. "The BBCo would furthermore like to confirm that John Mitchell's contract expires on the 31 October 2019."

Mitchell previously coached England as forwards coach under Sir Clive Woodward from 1997 to 2000 and has also coached Sale Sharks and New Zealand. The 54-year-old New Zealander may even rival Jones for possessing the most ferocious reputation in the game.