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.