“Firefighter” – Five Leading Contenders to Replace Steve Borthwick
Rugby NewsSunday, 22 February 2026 at 11:37
England’s Guinness Six Nations campaign unravelled in brutal fashion as a 42–21 defeat to Ireland at Allianz Stadium ended any lingering title ambitions and ramped up the scrutiny on Steve Borthwick and fly-half George Ford.
Former England fly-half and RugbyPass columnist Andy Goode said the performance matched Borthwick’s demeanour:
“Andy Farrell got his troops firing today, the mark of the head coach. Ireland were class from the first minute. England mirrored Steve Borthwick, uninspiring and dull. Ford’s time is up too in an England shirt.”
Fans also questioned Borthwick’s in-game calls — notably deploying Marcus Smith at full-back rather than replacing Ford at 10. Former USA Eagles star Will Hooley posted:
“If Borthwick truly wanted to make a statement, Smith can’t be brought on at 15…why not just give him the keys at 10 for a half?”
So if the RFU were to twist, who could realistically step in?
Warren Gatland
Bio
A serial Six Nations winner with Wales and three-time British & Irish Lions head coach, Gatland is the ultimate international operator. His teams are built on defensive steel, ruthless conditioning and tournament nous. An “old hand” who knows exactly how to win in the northern hemisphere cauldron.
Why it makes sense
England need structure, clarity and bite. Gatland guarantees all three. He would command instant respect and strip things back to basics.
The risk
Pragmatic, attritional rugby won’t thrill Twickenham. And would England really turn to a coach so closely tied to Welsh success?
Verdict
Safe hands, short-term fix. If England want stability before the next World Cup cycle, Gatland is plug-and-play.
Scott Robertson
Bio
The architect of the Crusaders dynasty and recently moved on from the All Blacks role. Innovative, charismatic and attack-minded, Robertson built one of the most dominant provincial teams in history.
Why it makes sense
England’s attack has stagnated. Robertson would bring tempo, invention and belief. His man-management is widely praised, and his personality could reset the national mood overnight.
The risk
Little northern hemisphere experience. The English media glare is relentless.
Verdict
High ceiling, high drama. A statement appointment — and perhaps the bold reboot England crave.
Phil Dowson
Bio
Head coach of Northampton Saints and arguably the most progressive English coach in the Prem right now. Dowson has built a young, ambitious Saints side playing fearless, fast rugby.
Why it makes sense
He understands the English player pool intimately and promotes youth without fear. His brand of rugby aligns with where the modern Test game is heading.
The risk
No Test experience. The jump from club to international is vast — and unforgiving.
Verdict
The project pick. If the RFU want a long-term identity shift, Dowson is the developmental gamble.
Shaun Edwards
Bio
Currently defence guru with France, Edwards has built some of the most ferocious defensive systems in modern rugby. A league legend turned union mastermind, he has openly stated his desire to be a head coach.
Why it makes sense
England’s defensive edge has dulled. Edwards would restore aggression and clarity. His standards are famously uncompromising.
The risk
Limited head coach pedigree at Test level. Defence alone doesn’t solve creativity issues.
Verdict
Culture shock appointment. Could reignite England’s identity — but needs the right attacking lieutenant.
Poll
Sir Clive Woodward
Bio
The man who led England to Rugby World Cup glory in 2003. Since stepping away from coaching, Woodward has been an outspoken critic of successive regimes.
Why it makes sense
Proven winner. Understands English rugby’s machinery better than anyone. If standards have slipped, he knows what elite looks like.
The risk
Two decades removed from frontline coaching. The modern game has evolved dramatically.
Verdict
Romantic but risky. A nostalgia play that would dominate headlines — but success is far from guaranteed.
EDITORS PICKS
- Will Greenwood tells Steve Borthwick to DROP England centurion
- England make shock ‘sack decision’ on Steve Borthwick
- Ellis Genge calls out teammates after defeat against Ireland
- Second Week Running: Mike Brown Left Red-Faced Over Prediction
- England fans want Ireland game replayed after ‘criminal’ decision
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