Steve Borthwick has been confirmed as the new head coach of England, replacing long-time incumbent Eddie Jones.
Earlier this month, it was revealed that Jones's seven-year reign had been brought to an end, a consequence of concluding a disappointing 2022 with further inconsistent performances.
Either side of that announcement, it was widely reported that Borthwick was the preferred replacement due to his efforts with Leicester Tigers.
The 43-year-old remained in charge of the East Midlands side on Saturday as they recorded a 23-16 triumph over Clermont Auvergne in the Champions Cup.
However, amid claims that the appointment was close to being made official, England Rugby has now confirmed that Borthwick has accepted the opportunity to succeed Jones.
𝐖𝐄𝐋𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐕𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐇𝐖𝐈𝐂𝐊
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) December 19, 2022
We're delighted our former captain and forwards coach Steve Borthwick has been appointed England men's head coach from today.
Borthwick will be joined by Kevin Sinfield who has been appointed defence coach.
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Borthwick, who has penned a five-year contract, will be joined by Kevin Sinfield, someone who has worked with him at Leicester since last year.
Speaking upon taking the role, Borthwick said: "I'm deeply honoured to be appointed England head coach, and I am very excited by the challenge.
"The English game is full of talent and I want to build a winning team which makes the most of our huge potential and inspires young people to fall in love with rugby union the way I did. I want the whole country to be proud of us and to enjoy watching us play.
"The hard work starts now and planning for the Guinness Six Nations and Rugby World Cup begins today. I will give it everything."
Borthwick is no stranger to life on the international stage, initially earning 57 caps during his playing days between 2001 and 2010.
As well as being assistant coach to Jones during their time with Japan, Borthwick was England's forwards coach between 2015 and 2020 before being given a chance to take on the senior role at Leicester.
Borthwick's first game in charge will be against Scotland in the Six Nations on February 4.
Darren Plant
