Steve Borthwick, England’s Carlisle-born coach, has not been deterred by his side’s poor performances in the Six Nations with only two victories.
He is excited about the upcoming World Cup in the autumn and looking forward to spending time with the players, preparing for the tournament.
Borthwick, who took over from Eddie Jones in December, said: “We will debrief this Six Nations thoroughly take what lessons we need from it and be clear on our direction going forward.
“The team is not where it could be and, while we’re judging against teams that have used this four year cycle tremendously well, that’s not the position that England are in.
“I can’t do anything about the past. I intend for us to be working really hard to put England in the best position possible and I’m excited what these players can do for the World Cup.”
England lost 29-16 in Ireland where the hosts were clinching the Grand Slam but that was a big improvement on the 53-10 home debacle against France a week earlier. They weren’t helped by having Freddie Steward sent off just before half-time.
Borthwick said: “I’m looking forward to having more time to work with the players over the coming months. Players will then be conditioned for international rugby and understand how we play.
“This has been five intense games and effectively you then have one main training session a week.
“I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to work with the players for a longer period of time. I think we’ve seen some growth here but I think we will see more in that preparation period.”
