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Joe El-Abd Set to Become England's New Defence Coach

El-Abd, currently head coach at Oyonnax, will replace Felix Jones following his unexpected resignation.

  • Joe El-Abd, head coach of French club Oyonnax, is expected to join England's coaching staff pending final contract agreements.
  • El-Abd will replace Felix Jones, who resigned unexpectedly, leaving the Rugby Football Union scrambling for a replacement.
  • Steve Borthwick, England’s head coach, has a long-standing relationship with El-Abd, having been flatmates during their university days.
  • El-Abd has a growing reputation in coaching, having previously worked in France and briefly served as England’s defence coach in 2019.
  • England's autumn internationals include matches against New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Japan, starting on November 2 at the Allianz Stadium.
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