England rugby head coach Steve Borthwick has hit back at his critics following a turbulent summer series, insisting the team has learned valuable lessons ahead of the upcoming season.
The debate over England's No. 10 shirt dominated discussions after mixed performances during the summer Tests. Borthwick, however, remains confident in his squad's progress.
Borthwick's Response to Critics
The former Leicester Tigers boss acknowledged the scrutiny but emphasised the importance of long-term development. "We're building something special here," Borthwick stated. "The summer gave us crucial insights that will shape our approach moving forward."
The Fly-Half Conundrum
With George Ford and Marcus Smith both vying for the pivotal No. 10 position, Borthwick revealed: "Competition drives excellence. We're fortunate to have multiple world-class options in key positions."
The coach hinted at potential tactical adjustments following their summer experiences: "We've identified areas for improvement, particularly in our attacking structure. The players have responded brilliantly to the challenge."
Looking Ahead
As England prepare for the Autumn Internationals, Borthwick remains focused on continuous improvement: "Every match is an opportunity to grow. The lessons from this summer will make us stronger."
With several young players emerging during the summer fixtures, England's depth appears stronger than ever, setting up an intriguing selection dilemma for the coming months.
