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Six Nations Championship 2016
SportRugby

England defence coach Paul Gustard up for the challenge as Eddie Jones demands more

The Australian has long been known for his high standards and ridiculous work ethic and he continues to drive his side forward

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England head coach Eddie Jones wants more from his defence. Photo: Reuters
Reuters

England defence coach Paul Gustard will not be downcast by head coach Eddie Jones’ frank assessment of his work and plans to use it as motivation to improve.

Jones has told Gustard, credited with turning Premiership champions Saracens into one of the best defensive teams in Europe, that he “has got to get better” despite England’s perfect record since the Australian took charge last year.

“I worked with Eddie before and knew he would be frank. I don’t mind that. I don’t want to be an ordinary coach, I want to be the best coach I can be,” Gustard said.

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England coach Eddie Jones watches on as Jamie George and Maro Itoje take part in a judo session. Photo: Reuters
England coach Eddie Jones watches on as Jamie George and Maro Itoje take part in a judo session. Photo: Reuters

England won this year’s Six Nations before travelling to Australia and beating the Wallabies 3-0. They conceded 10 tries in the series, however, and Jones demanded defensive improvement.

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“It’s not unfair criticism, it’s a critique,” Gustard said.

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