RFU CEO Bill Sweeney says urgent discussions will take place after England slumped to a historic Six Nations defeat against Italy.
Steve Borthwick’s side suffered their third straight loss when they went down 23-18 in Rome on Saturday – England’s first-ever Test defeat to Italy in 33 meetings.
The result has intensified scrutiny on Borthwick’s position, although the RFU insists the head coach still has its backing.
“After a 12-match winning run, these past three results have been hugely disappointing, and we feel that just as much as everyone else,” said Sweeney.
“Steve and his coaching team are working tirelessly to make improvements, and we remain fully committed to supporting them and the players as they face France this weekend and then look ahead to the Nations Championship.”
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England head to Paris for their final match knowing they can’t finish higher than fourth in this year’s tournament. While an unlikely outcome, they could still end up with the wooden spoon depending on results and points difference with Wales.
Sweeney said the governing body will now confront the problems behind England’s slump.
“Part of that support is being open about what hasn’t gone right during this Six Nations and making sure everyone has a clear sense of how we move through those challenges together.”
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He added: “We will work together to understand and rectify why we have been unable to meet the expectations and anticipation going into these games.
“England fans rightly expect a team that learns and grows through adversity, and we’re confident this group will do everything they can to deliver that.”
Photo: Peter Cziborra/Reuters
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