Louis Deacon named forwards coach of England Women

England Women have confirmed the appointment of Louis Deacon as the new forwards coach.

The 40-year-old will take over the role from Mark Luffman, who was appointed as interim forwards coach following the departure of Richard Blaze.

Deacon played for Leicester Tigers between 2000 and 2015 making 274 appearances for them and also played 29 times for England between 2005 and 2011.

After quitting his playing career in 2015, Deacon worked with Birmingham Moseley and England U20 before joining Coventry as forwards coach ahead of the 2017/18 season during which the club went on to win National League One title.

“I’m very excited to be taking up this role. It’ll be a new challenge for me and while I have enjoyed my time with Coventry I am looking forward to working with Simon, Scott and Amy as part of the Red Roses coaching team," he told in a statement released by Rugby Football Union.

“There’s such a lot of talent in the playing group and this role will give me the opportunity to continue to develop my coaching.

“It’s a big year for the Red Roses coming up with Rugby World Cup in 2022 and I can’t wait to get started and help build towards that.”

England Women head coach Simon Middleton welcomed Deacon's addition to the backroom staff.

“Louis has had a fantastic club and international career and is a consummate professional," he said.

“He’s incredibly experienced in the aspects of the role that we need to focus on, including set piece but he also has a diversity in his coaching. His playing background and coaching background make him the perfect fit and we’re looking forward to working with him.

?? “It’s a big year for the Red Roses coming up with Rugby World Cup and I can’t wait to get started and help build towards that.”

The #RedRoses have appointed former England international @loudeacs as forwards coach ?

— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) August 3, 2021