England have completed the overhaul of Steve Borthwick's coaching team with the permanent appointment of Byron McGuigan, the former Scotland international who has been involved with the national side since last summer.
McGuigan's role expanded
The 36-year-old, who initially joined Borthwick's staff for the tour of Argentina and the USA last year while continuing as defence coach at Sale Sharks, has now been added on a full-time basis. His focus will be on collision skills, the aerial contest, and working with the back three.
McGuigan's temporary deal was extended through the Autumn Nations Series and the Six Nations, where England managed just one win and suffered a historic defeat to Italy, finishing fifth. Despite the poor results, the RFU backed Borthwick after a review, and in March it was announced that McGuigan would leave Sale at the end of the season.
Borthwick's praise
“Byron is an excellent addition to our coaching group,” said Borthwick. “Since arriving with us last summer, he has made a strong impact through his detailed understanding of the game and the energy he brings. His work in supporting the development of our back-three players has already been valuable, and he has also invested a huge amount of time into individual player development across the squad. We’re excited about the contribution he will continue to make.”
McGuigan's journey
McGuigan, who earned 10 caps for Scotland and made over 100 appearances for Sale, gained coaching experience at grassroots level with Sandbach, Bowdon, and Rossendale before leading Sale in the 2023/24 Premiership Rugby Cup and becoming their defence coach. “It’s a huge honour to be part of the England set-up,” he said. “Since coming into the environment last summer, I’ve been really impressed by the players’ appetite to learn and improve. I’m excited to continue supporting the group and helping the players develop as we keep pushing standards forward.”
Coaching stability ahead of World Cup
England will hope McGuigan's addition finalises their coaching group ahead of the 2027 World Cup, following significant upheaval. Kevin Sinfield had his role reduced, Felix Jones joined as defence coach but resigned after seven months and rejoined South Africa, strength and conditioning coach Aled Walters left for Ireland, and Andrew Strawbridge departed after the 2025 autumn internationals. Joe El-Abd, Lee Blackett, Phil Morrow, and now McGuigan have been brought in to replenish the stocks alongside Richard Wigglesworth. Borthwick will be keen to maintain continuity with the World Cup just over a year away.
