RFU denies making contact with Michael Cheika over coaching role

England rugby chiefs have seemingly distanced themselves from speculation linking Michael Cheika with the head coach role.

Reports emerged on Monday morning suggesting that the Australia boss had been lined up by the Rugby Football Union to take over from Stuart Lancaster and lead the Red Rose through to the 2019 World Cup.

The RFU has knocked back these claims, however, with a spokesman telling the Daily Mail that "there has been no contact" with Cheika.

Former Leinster coach Cheika, who is under contract with the Australia Rugby Union until 2017, guided the Wallabies to the final of the recent Rugby World Cup - a competition England departed at the pool phase following a dismal campaign.