Shaun Edwards has revealed he held talks with England men's head coach Steve Borthwick six weeks ago before taking the Argentina job. The renowned former Wales coach has joined Argentina ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup after signing a contract to work with Felipe Contepomi's coaching staff through to the tournament in Australia.
Talks with Borthwick
Edwards has made no secret of his ambition to coach England's men's team, having spent much of his distinguished career winning silverware with other nations. The 60-year-old, who won seven men's Six Nations titles with Wales and France, said he had spoken with Borthwick about the possibility of joining England's men's coaching set-up.
However, the response was that the current staff were doing a good job, leaving Edwards to respect the decision and pursue the opportunity offered by Argentina. Speaking to Rugby World, he said: "I had a conversation with the boss of the (men's) team six weeks ago and was told they're happy with the staff they have and the way things are going. You have to respect that."
"I make no secret that I'd like to represent England and I'd love to win a Six Nations. Maybe two or three. That would be something else."
Red Roses Involvement
Edwards' involvement with England has recently centred on the women's team, where he has worked as a coaching consultant with the Red Roses. Although his new Argentina commitment appeared to bring that involvement to an end, he has revealed the South American outfit have given him their blessing to continue helping England's women if the opportunity arises.
"I can still take part in the Women's Six Nations. Argentina have given me permission. Nothing has been agreed," he said. "It's Sarah Hunter's job and there's no way I'll be badgering for her job. She's a friend of mine. But if I'm needed, I have Argentina's blessing."
Instead, any continued involvement would depend on whether his services were required, with Argentina's head coach Contepomi supportive of the idea. "Felipe said it will 'keep you sharp'," Edwards added.
World Cup Ambition
Edwards' appointment with Argentina comes after he left the France set-up, having helped Les Bleus win three Six Nations titles during his time as their specialist defence coach. He said the opportunity to work at another World Cup was a major factor in accepting the offer, with Argentina having been the first nation to put a contract in front of him.
Despite his latest move, Edwards has not given up hope of winning silverware with England, either in the men's or women's game. He said lifting a trophy with either side would rank among the greatest achievements of his career, although he insisted it would not represent the end of his coaching journey.
It does, however, feel like another open goal missed by England, with Edwards, a generational defence coach, set to be in a rival team's dugout once again when next year's World Cup rolls around.
