CHRIS ROBSHAW SAYS he has been managed better than ever by Harlequins head coach Conor O’Shea this year and is now in “a very good place”, despite reports he could lose the England captaincy.

Robshaw skippered an England side which became the first host nation to fail to progress beyond the pool stage of a Rugby World Cup in October.

Stuart Lancaster has since been replaced by Eddie Jones as England head coach and Robshaw’s position is also under scrutiny, with talk of Dylan Hartley taking over as captain.

Robshaw has been eased back into action with Quins and the flanker is grateful to O’Shea for his man-management skills following his World Cup anguish.

“I’ve never been managed before as well as I have this year,” he said.

Conor has been incredible. He has taken good care of me, whether that’s putting you on the bench, giving you a week off, making sure injuries are up to date. It’s all been hugely important and I now feel in a very good place.

“Post-World Cup the first month was pretty tough. Myself, and probably most of the England boys, going back to your club, your confidence has been knocked a bit.

The World Cup is still lingering in the back of your mind. You look at the guys in the last month compared to that initial month and the English guys have picked up steam, got it out of their systems and are playing tremendously well.

“You look at them, and they have a smile back on their faces. There is no magical cure, you need time.”

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