THE RFU HAVE denied that they are already looking for Stuart Lancaster’s replacement as England head coach, after former South Africa and Italy boss Nick Mallet revealed he had turned down an approach this week.
After stepping down from a successful spell in charge of Italy in 2011, Mallet had been tipped to take over the English side, but was overlooked in favour of Lancaster and has since been working as a TV pundit in his home country of South Africa.
But with England now eliminated from the World Cup, Mallet says he’s had contact from the RFU about replacing him, but will not be considering it.
Speaking in South Africa at a Blue Bulls breakfast on Thursday, Mallet says that despite the approach, his time has passed to take charge of England.
“I’m not going to consider it. I was keen for the challenge in 2011, but not anymore. I’m enjoying my current job,” he said.
However, the RFU have denied making any approach towards Mallet or any other potential coach, saying they will not be making any decisions about Lancaster’s future until after the tournament.
“There is a clear process at the conclusion of England’s tournament, which starts with the review. No pre-judgements have been made nor anyone contacted.”
Lancaster still has more than four years remaining on the six-year contract he signed with the RFU in 2014, with his coaching team of Mike Catt, Andy Farrell and Graham Rowntree also contracted until 2020.
England take on Uruguay in their final game of the tournament in Manchester tomorrow.
