Former South Africa coach Nick Mallett has claimed that he has been approached by the Rugby Football Union about becoming the next England head coach.

There have been doubts over Stuart Lancaster's long-term future with the team, given that he failed to guide the Red Rose past the pool stage at their home Rugby World Cup.

Mallett, who has also coached Italy, has revealed that he turned down the chance to succeed Lancaster as he is content in his role as coach of South Africa side Blue Bulls.

"I'm not going to consider it," sport24 quotes Mallett as saying. "I was keen for the challenge in 2011, but not anymore. I'm enjoying my current job."

Lancaster's contract with the RFU does not expire until 2020.

Written by
Danielle Joynson