England confirm John Mitchell as new defence coach
John Mitchell has been signed as England's defence coach until 2019 World Cup
©PA
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has named John Mitchell as the new defence coach of England.
Mitchell will be part of Eddie Jones' backroom staff until the 2019 World Cup in Japan while Scott Wisemantel will continue his role as attack coach.
The 54-year-old will join the red rose team in September ahead of their autumn internationals and will part away from Super Rugby side Bulls after the RFU managed to strike a negotiation with the South African side.
“This is an exciting opportunity to work with England Rugby and support Eddie Jones as head coach," said Mitchell.
"I will be joining an elite high-performance programme, Test team and coaching group where I will use all my experience and focus to bring the necessary clarity and confidence to the players from a defensive perspective.”
This will also be Mitchell's second stint with England after previously working as the forwards coach between 1997 and 2000 under under Sir Clive Woodward. He also has coaching experience with Ireland, Sale Sharks, Wasps, Lions, New Zealand and United States.
Jones was pleased with the announcement and believes Mitchell's experience will be beneficial to England side as they look to gain momentum after a tough Six Nations tournament followed by the June tour of South Africa.
“Defence is a key pillar of our game and John is an experienced coach.
"He’s coached the All Blacks, USA Rugby and a number of Super Rugby sides so he will bring a wealth of experience and add to the coaching mix we have here.”
England are set to face South Africa, New Zealand, Japan and Australia in their autumn international campaign at Twickenham Stadium.
