Player criticism after World Cup led to changes in English set-up

England’s decision to axe assistant coach Andy Farrell was sparked by heavy criticism from senior players in the post-World Cup review.

New head coach Eddie Jones has been given carte blanche to compose his own backroom staff, and had the option to retain former England boss Stuart Lancaster’s assistants.

But a core of the squad told the Rugby Football Union (RFU) that Farrell had to be held accountable for his role in England becoming the worst-performing hosts in World Cup history.