Steve Borthwick: RFU backs England coach despite ‘extremely disappointing’ performance.

England coach Steve Borthwick has given his backing, but said there will be a full examination of their dismal Six Nations campaign after the team’s final round match against France on Saturday.

England are fifth in the standings and a long way from the title after successive defeats to Scotland, Ireland and Italy – which was their first ever loss to the Azzurri – destroyed their ambitions and raised questions about Borthwick’s future.

Bill Sweeney, chief executive of the Rugby Football Union, said: “After a 12-game winning streak, the last three results have been very disappointing and we feel that as much as everyone else.

“Steve and his coaching team are working tirelessly to make improvements and we remain fully committed to supporting them and the players as they face France this weekend and then look ahead to the Nations Championship.

“Part of that support is being open about what didn’t go well during these Six Nations and making sure everyone has a clear sense of how we will get through these challenges together. This is something we will be talking about and working on in the coming days and weeks.”

“We will work together to understand and correct why we were unable to meet expectations and anticipation in these matches.

“English fans truly expect a team that learns and grows through adversity, and we are confident that this group will do everything they can to achieve that.”

Borthwick defended his record and the direction of the team after Italy, who have lost their last 32 matches to England, won 23-18 in Rome.

When asked if he was the right man for the job, the 46-year-old replied, “Absolutely.”

“Right now, this is a difficult period, but what we will do is learn from it and make sure we are stronger going forward.

“It is difficult now and we do not hide the fact that it is difficult.”

More to follow.