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MOST RECENT ARTICLES FROM CHRIS FOY
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Billy Vunipola awaiting scan on injured knee which could leave the Saracens and England No 8's hopes of playing at the World Cup in TATTERS after being stretchered off against La Rochelle on Easter Sunday
10/04/23 01:47
Billy Vunipola is due for a scan on his injured knee on Tuesday after being stretchered off after 22 minutes of Saracens' Champions Cup game against La Rochelle on Sunday afternoon. The No 8 faces an enormous challenge to be fit in time for the World Cup unless results of the assessment come back with positive news....read
La Rochelle 24-10 Saracens: Levani Botia excels as holders knock Premiership leaders out of Champions Cup and Billy Vunipola's injury causes concern
09/04/23 09:30CHRIS FOY AT STADE MARCEL-DEFLANDRE: A damaging day for Saracens saw their Champions Cup hopes turned to dust by La Rochelle's 'Demolition Man' Levani Botia.
CHRIS FOY: Variety makes the Challenge Cup exciting with four nations represented and three potential new winners... it has appeal for those with an aversion to sporting predictability
09/04/23 09:30CHRIS FOY - WORLD OF RUGBY: The poor, derided Challenge Cup may just have stumbled on a unique selling point - its variety and novelty factor.
'I wanted to sub myself off, leave Sandy Park and never return': Exeter stalwart Jack Yeandle is ready for more cup glory after bouncing back from try-line gaffe... but don't call him Stephen
07/04/23 09:31INTERVIEW BY CHRIS FOY: Yeandle has long been part of the furniture at Sandy Park, and never more so than on Saturday - when fans will search for 10 pictures of his bald head in an Easter egg hunt
Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth reveals his debt of gratitude to Stuart Lancaster as he bids to stop the former England coach's Leinster 'juggernaut' in the Heineken Champions Cup
06/04/23 09:30Richard Wigglesworth has revealed his gratitude towards Stuart Lancaster for offering support since he took charge at Leicester as the Tigers are set to face Leinster on Saturday night.
England No 8 Alex Dombrandt reveals he deleted his Twitter account due to social media criticism after England's disappointing Six Nations... insisting he has 'nothing to prove' at international level
04/04/23 05:29CHRIS FOY: Dombrandt started at the base of the scrum for the national team throughout the 2023 championship which finished late last month but was the target of a harsh online backlash.
CHRIS FOY: South African rugby has a LOT to offer but geographical gulfs make playing rivals a chaotic logistical exercise - World Rugby should prioritise the development of the sport in Africa to create closer derbies
02/04/23 10:18What a show of force they produced at the weekend. The European elite have been left in no doubt that they could be eclipsed in both the Heineken Champions Cup and the Challenge Cup.
Luke Cowan-Dickie is seeing a specialist today in bid to be fit for England's pre-World Cup camp... with Exeter hoping to fast-track his rehab ahead of his summer move to Montpellier
30/03/23 11:00The Chiefs' 29-year-old hooker suffered serious damage to the joint during a Premiership clash with Northampton in January and he had an operation which meant he missed the Six Nations.
Flanker Jack Willis signs new contract with French club Toulouse until the summer of 2025 despite the threat of England exile after RFU rejected calls to extend his special dispensation after the World Cup
29/03/23 06:09Jack Willis has signed a new contract with Toulouse which could keep him at the French club until the summer of 2025 - but his hopes of playing for England after the World Cup remain in doubt.
EXCLUSIVE: London Irish could be taken over by a major American fund next week with the prospective buyers transferring funds to pay the cash-strapped Premiership club's players, coaches and staff
29/03/23 02:13EXCLUSIVE: A major American fund hope to complete a takeover of London Irish next week - and are transferring funds for the Premiership club's players and staff to be paid on Friday.
Cash-strapped London Irish risk not paying players, coaches and staff this week - with fear of financial turmoil continuing to plague the Premiership club - as potential buy-out is delayed
28/03/23 09:30London Irish players, coaches and staff are anxiously waiting to discover if they will be paid later this week amid growing fears of financial turmoil, as a buy-out of the club has been delayed.
Saracens face nervous wait to discover extent of captain Owen Farrell's ankle injury after the England man limped off in Harlequins win - but are optimistic he will be fit for end-of-season title challenge
28/03/23 03:33The 31-year-old fly-half - skipper for club and country - limped off 10 minutes from the end of the league leaders' 36-24 win over London rivals Harlequins last Saturday afternoon.
Battle of England No 10s Marcus Smith and Owen Farrell proves to be a box-office hit as Saracens' victory over Harlequins shatters the Premiership's TV viewing record with a peak of over 1.5m viewers
28/03/23 10:24Saracens' 'showdown' with Harlequins at Tottenham Stadium last Saturday shattered the Premiership's TV viewing record - with a peak audience of more than 1.5 million people.
CHRIS FOY: Country must come first if England are to prosper again... central or shared contracts have become a necessity with Anthony Watson the latest set to join exodus to France
26/03/23 09:31CHRIS FOY - WORLD OF RUGBY: With Anthony Watson in talks to join Castres and Jack Willis expected to stay at Toulouse, the cross-Channel exodus of English players goes on.
Sarries sweat over Owen Farrell's latest ankle injury... with the fly-half limping off at Tottenham near the end of Premiership win over Harlequins on Saturday
26/03/23 09:30Owen Farrell is likely to discover in the next 24 hours whether his latest ankle injury will endanger his prospects of leading Saracens' title crusade.
'There's nobody better than Maro Itoje to learn from': Hugh Tizard caused a stir by crossing London rugby's north-south divide to join Saracens from Quins... but the lock has no regrets ahead of their Premiership showdown at Premier League Tottenham
24/03/23 07:03INTERVIEW BY CHRIS FOY: When Hugh Tizard announced last year that he was crossing London rugby's north-south divide to join Saracens, it caused shock at Harlequins.
'I know we lost, but I loved every minute of it!': Manu Tuilagi reflects on a 'brilliant' campaign after making his comeback in Dublin... despite Steve Borthwick's team slumping to three defeats in five games
20/03/23 10:30Manu Tuilagi feared he would miss the whole Six Nations after being sent off playing for Sale last month, so the glass-half-full character reflected on a 'brilliant' campaign after making his comeback.
Finn Russell trolls Owen Farrell, Damian Penaud's try took our breath away and Italy gave us a 'racing snake!': CHRIS FOY relives the best (and worst) moments of the Six Nations in his Championship verdict
19/03/23 11:50CHRIS FOY for the Daily Mail: It's been an epic campaign for Andy Farrell's side, who failed to go behind by more than six points in any game during the campaign.
'There's bigger fish to fry': Andy Farrell turns his attention to the Rugby World Cup and expects his side to be 'a lot better' come October, despite Ireland's epic Grand Slam triumph
19/03/23 11:24'There's bigger fish to fry than this, you know - we're on to the World Cup,' he told his captain, while sipping on a can of Guinness. They made their way up the road for dinner at the RDS Arena.
England players vow to rally around 'incredibly upset' Freddie Steward after full-back was shown a red card during England's Six Nations loss to Ireland, as Anthony Watson insists: 'I have no idea what he could have done differently'
19/03/23 11:04CHRIS FOY: The Six Nations finale was finely balanced at 10-6 to Ireland just before half-time when Steward was sent off for a collision with Hugo Keenan.
'We've got to learn faster than anybody else': Steve Borthwick demands England players commit to making up a fitness deficit away from camp, admitting his side's attack 'hasn't been good enough'
19/03/23 10:52A year ago, the national team had been awkward bystanders at a French clean-sweep party and here they were again, forced to watch opponents dancing around with the Six Nations trophy.
Ireland are ready to party and England are NOT good enough to gatecrash... the green machine will destroy a spluttering mass of parts and comfortably claim a Six Nations Grand Slam in Dublin
17/03/23 10:31The St Patrick's weekend festivities should reach a thunderous climax at about 7pm on Saturday when Ireland clinch the Six Nations title and the fourth Grand Slam in their history, after dispatching England.
'What I've seen is an INCREDIBLE player - it's the right time for him to start': Steve Borthwick is convinced Henry Arundell can rise to the occasion and show his X-factor class against Ireland as the 20-year-old prepares to face the world's No 1 team
16/03/23 10:36CHRIS FOY: Borthwick downplayed the danger of pitching Arundell into such a high-stakes occasion and the concern of England fans that he may end up a peripheral figure.
England announce team to play Ireland with wonderkid Henry Arundell given his first start, while Owen Farrell reclaims the No 10 shirt from Marcus Smith for Six Nations showdown
16/03/23 05:18CHRIS FOY: Steve Borthwick has opted to revert to the 2019 midfield combination which worked so well in victory over the Irish in Dublin, by recalling Manu Tuilagi at inside centre with Henry Slade.EXCLUSIVE: England rugby's new wonderkid Henry Arundell, 20, set to earn his first start in the Six Nations against Ireland on Saturday, with Steve Borthwick desperate for some X-factor after France thrashing
16/03/23 12:05EXCLUSIVE: The London Irish star made cameo appearances off the bench in the last three rounds of the Six Nations, after missing the whole autumn campaign last year due to a foot injury.
Owen Farrell is set to reclaim England's No 10 shirt from Marcus Smith for their final Six Nations game against Grand Slam-chasing Ireland - with Steve Borthwick also recalling Manu Tuilagi for trip to Dublin
15/03/23 04:04Owen Farrell is set to reclaim the England No 10 shirt from Marcus Smith in Dublin as Steve Borthwick prepares to go back to the future by deploying the midfield trio who upset Ireland four years ago.
CHRIS FOY: Steve Borthwick faces a wildly uncomfortable selection dilemma for Ireland clash. The England coach has issues that need sorting all over the field... but it all comes down to whether he is prioritising the result or the bigger picture
14/03/23 07:31The stage is set for more playmaker selection intrigue. England's three No 10 contenders have all survived the squad cut, after George Ford was declared fully available for selection. So what to do?
Mack Hansen was sensational for Ireland while Ken Owens put in a herculean effort for Wales... but how many France players make the cut after BATTERING England in CHRIS FOY'S Six Nations team of the week?
13/03/23 11:48CHRIS FOY: Fabien Galthie's Six Nations title-holders were so imperious at Twickenham that the only question was whether any of their starting XV should be left out.
Manu Tuilagi could force his way back into England's starting line-up as Ollie Lawrence will miss their Six Nations clash with Ireland due to injury... as Steve Borthwick selects a 36-man squad following woeful loss to France
13/03/23 08:54Manu Tuilagi has an unexpected opportunity to force his way back into England's midfield for the Six Nations finale against Ireland after Ollie Lawrence was ruled out.
CHRIS FOY: Let's clear something up, England will NOT win the World Cup this year... they are miles off the global pace and if they play like they did against France they will lose to Argentina
12/03/23 11:00CHRIS FOY: Days before England's humiliation at the hands of World Cup favourites France, Ellis Genge was speaking about the team's current predicament. But things have gotten even worse.
'We haven't been good enough': Gutted Jamie George apologises for England's Six Nations hammering against France and admits seeing Twickenham crowd leave early was 'really tough' to take
12/03/23 10:53Jamie George apologised to England fans after the record-breaking rout at the hands of France, admitting he understood why thousands of them left Twickenham early in disgust.
CHRIS FOY'S SIX NATIONS VERDICT: Rhys Webb's kick was a lucky bounce for Warren Gatland, a NONSENSE law denied Ireland a great try... while my crystal ball got it wrong as France overran England
12/03/23 10:33CHRIS FOY: All coaches need some good fortune sometimes and that was certainly the case for Warren Gatland in Rome. His second stint in charge of Wales was in early trouble.
From captain Antoine Dupont to Charles 'The Phenomenon' Ollivon, the reigning champions will be heavily armed for their clash with England... these are THREE players to watch out for at Twickenham
10/03/23 10:42Raphael Ibanez's side will be filled with impressive talent throughout the starting XV and will test the credentials of Steve Borthwick's England hopefuls.
Magic Marcus! Harlequins fly-half Smith has a box of tricks that he can unleash against France... his fancy footwork and impressive vision can help clinch victory at Twickenham
10/03/23 10:31The Harlequins fly-half has been named in Steve Borthwick's starting XV for the match, which has resulted in captain Owen Farrell being dropped to the bench.
CHRIS FOY: England can lift the gloom and re-engage the nation if they put on a show against France... as Steve Borthwick's side prepare to take on the reigning Six Nations champions
10/03/23 10:31CHRIS FOY: Rugby in this country has been on a downer and an encounter with title-holders France at Twickenham is the ideal, grand occasion for the national team to turn the tide of this rivalry.
Anthony Watson backs England team-mate Marcus Smith to light up Twickenham with his 'X-factor' in clash with France... as the mercurial fly-half inclusion sees captain Owen Farrell drop OUT the starting XV
10/03/23 10:31CHRIS FOY: The mercurial fly-half has been given licence to thrill after Steve Borthwick made the shock move to drop Owen Farrell from the starting XV.
Raphael Ibanez has enjoyed a successful history against England during his career... the French team manager is not like many of his compatriots and it could be an issue for Steve Borthwick's side
10/03/23 10:30CHRIS FOY: For most modern-day France players and coaches, Twickenham is a place of defeats and ordeals, ghosts and scars. But it is not like that for Raphael Ibanez.
England may be happy to play the underdog role but this is the perfect chance to slow the French rugby juggernaut... they mustn't die wondering in Saturday's 'Le Crunch' and CAN restore Red Rose pride
10/03/23 04:52CHRIS FOY: Rugby in this country has been on a downer and an encounter with France is the ideal, grand occasion for the national team to turn the tide of this rivalry.
How Ellis Genge went from 'Mad Dog' to Captain Fantastic: England flanker Lewis Ludlam pays tribute to his old friend and new skipper, who has 'always been emotional and aggressive' but has learned to 'use it in the right way'
09/03/23 10:30For an insight into what Ellis Genge will bring to the England captaincy and how the 'mad dog' became a suitable candidate for the prestigious role, just ask Lewis Ludlam.
CHRIS FOY: It's a seismic shock and a profound statement of ruthless intent from Steve Borthwick to drop England captain Owen Farrell in favour of Marcus Smith… the new head coach is making it clear that NO-ONE is untouchable
08/03/23 06:00Marcus Smith's impending recall at No 10 for England is significant, but the fact that he is set to replace Owen Farrell - who is destined for a bench role against France - is truly momentous.
Marcus Smith regains his place in England's training squad as he edges out George Ford... and the Harlequins star could even edge out captain Owen Farrell to start against France
07/03/23 10:00CHRIS FOY: Marcus Smith has protected his endangered status as one of England's chosen playmakers as the Harlequins No 10 was retained for the France game on Saturday
Steve Borthwick's playmaker plans could be revealed TODAY if either George Ford or Marcus Smith are released from training camp, with the England coach facing major selection dilemma ahead of Six Nations clash with France
07/03/23 11:14CHRIS FOY: The head coach faces some major dilemmas as he prepares to whittle down his squad ahead of the clash with Six Nations champions France at Twickenham on Saturday.
CHRIS FOY: It may be time to ditch the 'H-word' in the Six Nations, but intense rivalries are what the tournament is all about and must not be dampened
05/03/23 10:53WORLD OF RUGBY - CHRIS FOY: The time has come to ask an uncomfortable, polarising question, with profound ramifications for the Six Nations. Is hate a crime?
England recall Marcus Smith after impressing in Harlequins' win over Exeter, as competition heats up for the number 10 spot in a squad already featuring George Ford and Owen Farrell
05/03/23 10:30Marcus Smith was duly recalled by England last night, after inspiring Harlequins' rout of Exeter - setting up an intriguing tussle for playmaker places against France on Saturday.
Premiership clubs to dig their heels in over England's overseas stars despite coach Steve Borthwick urging the RFU to change their foreign policy so he select the strongest possible team
02/03/23 10:31Premiership clubs are ready to strongly resist any attempt to allow England to pick players based abroad - despite growing indications that a planned salary cap rise may be abandoned.
CHRIS FOY: What a TRAVESTY! Marcus Smith is a generational talent in danger of being marginalised by England. It's a bad look for a troubled sport which needs to find way to embrace flair, not fear it
28/02/23 04:27When France come to Twickenham in 10 days’ time, Smith is now unlikely to be on duty against them, as he appears set to be usurped by George Ford. This is a prospect which will be loudly lamented.
France will face Ireland on a FRIDAY night to open the 2024 Six Nations... but defending champions will play ALL of their home games away from the Stade de France as the venue prepares for the Paris Olympics
28/02/23 10:00CHRIS FOY: England will be away from home for 'Le Crunch' as the culmination of their campaign on March 16, 2024 - as the schedule for next year's tournament is unveiled.
Huw Jones, Finn Russell and Pierre Schoeman make the cut after nearly spurring Scotland on to an incredible comeback against France, but which England players make CHRIS FOY'S Six Nations team of the week?
27/02/23 10:59CHRIS FOY: This was difficult after a weekend when the three winning teams were far from imperious - so much so that an original version of this team featured a different half-back pairing.
CHRIS FOY'S Six Nations verdict: Cardiff crowd falls flat after dire period for Welsh rugby, Ireland stars are sung out to dry... and intervention is needed on match weekend hotel rip-offs
26/02/23 11:14CHRIS FOY: Something felt a bit different about the Cardiff atmosphere this time. It lacked some of the usual fervour when England visit. Perhaps there is a weary sense of dejection
CHRIS FOY: There were positives for England in Cardiff - including Freddie Steward under the high ball and Kyle Sinckler's redemption - but fans will surely demand more running and artistry amid percentages and pragmatism
26/02/23 10:30CHRIS FOY: Four years ago, Sinckler made a tearful exit from the Principality Stadium after unravelling in the face of Welsh wind-ups, but on Saturday he showed how much he has changed.
CHRIS FOY: After the politics, it's now time for the passion with Wales and England set for their full-blooded Cardiff showdown at last after a week of turmoil - and it is must-win for both sides
24/02/23 10:30CHRIS FOY: After all the strife and the strike threat, one of rugby's marquee rivalries will erupt with all the usual fervour in Cardiff as Wales and England park the politics and revert to revival mode.
England head coach Steve Borthwick urges RFU to change overseas rule so he can select the 'best players possible' amid fears the Premiership's financial problems will spark an exodus to France
23/02/23 10:30Steve Borthwick has indicated that he will press the RFU to reform their overseas selection policy, after recalling Anthony Watson and Courtney Lawes for Saturday's showdown with Wales.
CHRIS FOY: No Tom Curry, Ollie Hassell-Collins or Manu Tuilagi means England's upshot is stability but win over Italy exposed many flaws - Steve Borthwick doesn't regard anyone as untouchable and under-fire Maro Itoje will have to deliver against Wales
23/02/23 01:31After all the turmoil, some order has been restored. Steve Borthwick has made the one change he had to make - and left the rest of his starting XV alone, which makes sense in the quest for improvements.
Anthony Watson could make his first England start for almost TWO YEARS this weekend as Steve Borthwick looks to replace injured wing Ollie Hassell-Collins for Six Nations showdown with Wales - which is ON after strike threat dropped
22/02/23 10:00England are expected to make limited changes to the team that beat Italy, but an injury to Ollie Hassell-Collins means there will be a change in the No 11 jersey.
'It's tough to see British rugby struggling… a lot of players are leaving the Prem': England veteran Courtney Lawes sympathises with Wales stars in contract dispute, and insists there's 'a lot of work to be done' to grow the sport
22/02/23 05:01INTERVIEW BY CHRIS FOY: Courtney Lawes has challenged the RFU and the Premiership to sort out the ongoing financial pressures facing the professional game in the country.
'Growing up in Wales, if an English kid transfers to your school, you're taught "don't bother with them"': Welsh prodigy Dafydd Jenkins on his country's 'nuts' rivalry with England - ahead of his potential first senior clash against the old enemy
20/02/23 09:30INTERVIEW BY CHRIS FOY: Dafydd Jenkins is making a name for himself at Exeter, after coming through the talent factory at Hartpury College, but on Saturday the rookie Wales lock will tap into his country's antagonism towards the English.
Steve Borthwick fast-tracks George Ford back into the England squad for Six Nations clash with Wales - despite the Sale fly-half only playing 80 minutes of rugby this season
19/02/23 10:30The 29-year-old fly-half has been recalled by head coach Steve Borthwick after a long injury lay-off. Ford ruptured an achilles in the Premiership final last June.
CHRIS FOY: Manu Tuilagi is facing a ban and the prospect of NEVER playing for England again after his red card… his moment of madness could cost him his international career
19/02/23 10:30WORLD OF RUGBY: How quickly the picture has changed. Weeks after coming into camp full of purpose. Manu Tuilagi is facing a ban and the prospect of never playing for England again
George Ford is ready to rejoin the selection soap opera that he has known his entire career... the fly-half is out to remind people that there are THREE vying for England's 10 shirt - not two
17/02/23 10:30INTERVIEW: During his seven-month absence after rupturing an Achilles in last season's Premiership final, the Sale fly-half has been a distant observer as an age-old debate has raged.
'This should have been sorted a long, long time ago': Wales legend Jonathan Davies leaps to the defence of players considering strike action before Six Nations clash with England... insisting the country's pay dispute is their latest 'SHAMBOLIC episode'
16/02/23 04:06Wales legend Jonathan Davies has voiced his sympathy for the players who are considering strike action - and lashed out at the 'shambolic and depressing' state of the game in the Principality.
Wasps given green light to relaunch in the Championship next season but RFU confirm that Worcester have been DENIED a place to rejoin English rugby's second tier following breakdown in talks with Atlas Consortium
15/02/23 06:42Wasps have been cleared to launch a revival mission in the Championship next season, but the RFU confirmed last night that Worcester have been denied a place in English rugby's second tier.
'I had to mature... there has been a lot of growing up': Ollie Lawrence has overcome the collapse of Worcester to star for club and country - and Steve Borthwick's back-to-basics approach with England has the centre thriving
14/02/23 10:00Asked to explain his Man of the Match role in Sunday's win over the Azzurri at Twickenham, the Bath centre said: 'I think Steve (Borthwick) put it as, "You've got to kick the front door down"'.
REVEALED: Jack Willis's England future is in jeopardy as RFU tell the Toulouse flanker that his special dispensation to play abroad following Wasps' collapse will end after this year's World Cup
13/02/23 10:30CHRIS FOY: Jack Willis, England's rejuvenated hitman, faces the threat of being left in Test exile after the World Cup, as the RFU set a time-limit on his special dispensation to play abroad.
England pair Jamie George and Jack Willis make the cut and there's room for Damian Penaud's brilliance for France despite losing Dublin epic... but how many Ireland players make CHRIS FOY'S Six Nations team of the week?
13/02/23 12:35CHRIS FOY: Frankly, several Ireland players not included in my composite team from the second round can consider themselves unlucky.
CHRIS FOY'S SIX NATIONS VERDICT: Ireland coach Andy Farrell has given his side a mental edge, Finn Russell looked like he was messing around with pals in the park and refs missed two high-tackle red cards
12/02/23 10:30Ireland's epic victory over France showed they are surging towards the World Cup with ever greater conviction. Sportsmail's CHRIS FOY takes a look at the things you may have missed.
PLAYER RATINGS: Jack Willis capped a ferocious display with a try on his England comeback and explosive Ollie Lawrence impressed, but Ollie Hassell-Collins was barely involved
12/02/23 10:01England dismantled a disappointing Italy to give the Steve Borthwick era lift off with a 31-14 Guinness Six Nations victory at Twickenham. Sportsmail's CHRIS FOY rated the players.
England 31-14 Italy: Jack Willis stars as Steve Borthwick's side deliver a first win for their new head coach by mauling Italians into submission at Twickenham to kickstart Six Nations campaign
12/02/23 05:07Jack Willis made a stunning, roaring return to England's starting line-up as Steve Borthwick's side belatedly launched their new era by mauling gallant Italy into submission.
CHRIS FOY: Ivan Toney's equaliser against Arsenal should NOT have stood! VAR failed to fully investigate the lines and should have spotted Christian Norgaard was offside
11/02/23 10:36EXPERT VIEW - CHRIS FOY: The truth is that VAR didn't fully investigate Toney's goal with the lines. The lines, simply, didn't go down. And that counts as human error.
Steve Borthwick is convinced England's new-look attack will be too good for Italy after his ruthless call to bench Marcus Smith in favour of Owen Farrell at No 10 for Six Nations clash
10/02/23 11:30Steve Borthwick is convinced that England's revamped midfield will pose a deadly threat to Italy at Twickenham on Saturday after confirming Owen Farrell's return to the No 10 shirt.
Steve Borthwick's decision to drop Marcus Smith - once the darling of English rugby - is another statement about the coach's willingness to ignore reputations... Owen Farrell has officially won the race for No 10
10/02/23 10:00CHRIS FOY: However it is officially packaged, Marcus Smith has been dropped from the England team for Sunday's Six Nations clash with Italy by Steve Borthwick
England DROP Marcus Smith in favour of Owen Farrell at fly-half, with Ollie Lawrence and Henry Slade in the centre, as Steve Borthwick makes changes for Sunday's Six Nations clash with Italy
10/02/23 03:33Lawrence is promoted to the starting XV at inside centre as reward for his supreme form at Bath, since an enforced, mid-season move from stricken Worcester.
'Keep blaming me!' Eddie Jones snipes at England successor Steve Borthwick - and warns there is 'more pain to come' after they were beaten by Scotland in their Six Nations opener
10/02/23 10:24The man who was in charge of the national team here for seven years until he was sacked by the RFU last December has delivered a pointed riposte from Down Under.
Marcus Smith set to be DROPPED to the bench for Italy clash as England head coach Steve Borthwick revamps his midfield after Scotland defeat... with Owen Farrell shifting to fly-half and Ollie Lawrence and Henry Slade at centre
09/02/23 10:30Marcus Smith is set to be reduced to a replacement role for England against Italy on Sunday, with captain Owen Farrell shifting to fly-half at Twickenham.
'I didn't understand it… I was taken aback': England star MAX MALINS on being axed by Eddie Jones over his body language in walk-through before a France clash - and how it's made him come back even stronger
09/02/23 10:00CHRIS FOY: There was not much wrong with Malins' body language when he scored two tries on his England comeback, to make a mockery of Jones's justification for casting him into Test exile.
England's most capped men's player Ben Youngs and Ben Curry are DROPPED for Italy clash along with Anthony Watson as new head coach Steve Borthwick shows his ruthless streak following opening Six Nations defeat by Scotland
08/02/23 04:39Ben Youngs and Ben Curry have been released from the England squad preparing to face Italy at Twickenham on Sunday - as an early sign of Steve Borthwick's ruthless streak as a selector.
Head coach Steve Borthwick continues England overhaul by recruiting Leicester duo Richard Wigglesworth and Aled Walters... with forwards coach Richard Cockerill leaving after the Six Nations
07/02/23 10:30The Leicester take-over of the England hierarchy will continue at the end of this season, when Richard Wigglesworth and Aled Walters join the revamped Red Rose set-up.
CHRIS FOY: The stats add up for Steve Borthwick's new-look England as they make more metres, passes, runs and rucks against Scotland… now they just need to win! The quest for an explosive presence may open the door again for Manu Tuilagi
06/02/23 10:30Steve Borthwick is known for his in-depth use of data, so the new England head coach will have been encouraged by statistical evidence of progress in his first Test - despite the grim result.
Magnificent Antoine Dupont and Johnny Sexton combine, while Scotland's giant wing and two-try hero Duhan van der Merwe also makes the cut... but do any England players make CHRIS FOY'S Six Nations team of the week?
06/02/23 05:00CHRIS FOY: This line-up changed several times on Sunday afternoon as Italy threatened to pull off a massive shock by beating France. They didn't quite manage it, but several of their players stood out.
Welcome to the hotseat, Steve! Harsh reality sinks in following defeat by Scotland as England coach Borthwick faces a huge salvage operation
05/02/23 10:52Now there is some uncomfortable evidence to go on, the new England coach will be painfully aware that there is a lot to do, in a hurry - perhaps even more than he first feared.
CHRIS FOY: England take steps to erase Eddie Jones's tenure from Twickenham press room... and Johnny Sexton was pivotal in Ireland's victory in Wales
05/02/23 10:30CHRIS FOY: Ten weeks after England's last fixture under Eddie Jones, the RFU had taken steps to move on from myriad memories of the Australian's seven-year tenure as head coach.
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Enzo Maresca insists Cole Palmer's slump is NOT his fault... as Chelsea boss blames 'mental' issue for the Blues' star's 16-game goal drought
Eni Aluko APOLOGISES to Ian Wright: Former footballer admits she was 'wrong' to accuse Arsenal legend of 'blocking' pathway for female pundits in shock attack
Chris Eubank Jr issues defiant six-word message after failing to make weight for Conor Benn fight - as he reveals BRUTAL reality of weight cutting
Matheus Cunha's Man United deal is 'in the final stages' as Red Devils make 'significant progress' in talks for £62.5m Wolves star ahead of summer move
more stars of sport
Chris Eubank Jr reacts to prospect of losing $500k for missing weight by less than one ounce, as Conor Benn sends message on necklace
EXCLUSIVE TNT Sports receive 102 complaints over 'BIASED' commentary by Rio Ferdinand and Robbie Savage in Man United's comeback win over Lyon
Revealed: The HUGE amount that Chris Eubank Jr could lose after he failed to make weight for Conor Benn fight - after already being fined for egg-slap- Eni Aluko apologises to Ian Wright: Former footballer admits she was 'wrong' to accuse Arsenal legend of 'blocking' pathway for female pundits
New Man United WAG: Stunning British influencer who dated Kylian Mbappe is linked to £51m star after eagle-eyed fans spotted her posting from his flat
Snooker star says he is 'too LAZY' to change his playing style after reaching round two following chaotic clash at World Championship Bold statement 
Ex-Barcelona and Spain star Gerard Pique, 38, 'splits with girlfriend Clara Chia', 26, after three years together and 'third parties may be involved'
Pep Guardiola and Cristina Serra 'are giving each other a second chance' and 'not all is lost in their marriage', claim reports in Spain after Man City boss 'spent time in Barcelona'
Agonising moment moment snooker player loses black ball frame at World Championship with cruel slice of luck Player left a mixture of disbelief and disgust 
Jamie Vardy will LEAVE Leicester this summer and could be set for a move to the US with wife Rebekah as fairytale 13-year spell ends on a sour note
EXCLUSIVE Eni Aluko faces ITV AXE over accusing colleague Ian Wright of 'blocking' female pundits from TV work Big development 
Revealed: How stunning DAZN TV host Diletta Leotta's male colleague's wife stepped in 'to make things clear' with her over her behaviour
Michael Schumacher's son Mick's Miss Universe finalist girlfriend is spotted on celebrity dating app Raya Have couple split? 
Irish Wrexham star James McClean's footballer brother under investigation at his club after he was spotted at New IRA parade Derry-based parade 
Andrew Flintoff's wife admits she'd 'never seen someone so scared' after his horror crash and opens up on heartbreaking conversation with kids
Ronnie O'Sullivan says 'a massive thank you' to his psychiatrist after returning to his blistering best to beat his nemesis Ali Carter at the Crucible
AC Milan and Inter fans put rivalry aside in moving tribute to Pope Francis, as fans across Italy pay respect at games rescheduled after his death
Eni Aluko blames Joey Barton for her dramatic drop in TV punditry work after he called her a 'race card player' Had to disguise herself 
EXCLUSIVE BBC star Seema Jaswal opens up on heartbreaking moment she stepped in to hug snooker star John Higgins as he broke down in tears 
Stable boy waiting a YEAR for 'one-in-a-million' win as bookmakers refuse to pay out on bet placed He was set for a big windfall from the bet 
Carlos Alcaraz reveals he partied in Ibiza for THREE DAYS straight before winning Wimbledon in new Netflix documentary Let his hair down 
Snooker icon reveals how he has been tamed by beauty queen partner 23 YEARS his junior after gambling away millions during his heyday
Ronnie O'Sullivan and Ali Carter bitter feud takes yet another twist as fans spot off-camera gesture at the Snooker World Championship Subtle move 
Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn face-off for first time since 'egg-gate' - with security on red alert ahead of huge grudge match Explosive reunion? 
Lewis Hamilton's vegan burger company 'shuts down' leaving '150 jobless' after recording £8MILLION in losses New report claims 
Mykhailo Mudryk doping ban update as chief confirms Chelsea could SAVE a huge chunk of his £88m transfer fee Silver lining for Blues? 
Snooker star John Higgins reveals heart-breaking reason behind breaking down in BBC interview after reaching Last-16 at the Crucible Sad scenes 
Michael Schumacher's son spotted on celebrity dating app Raya, as he wipes Miss Universe girlfriend from his recent Instagram posts
Leeds WAGs join their £110m Premier League promotion party as partners offer a peek inside champagne-soaked dressing room celebrations
Spain love triangle footballer makes red carpet debut with stunning new girlfriend as he tries to move on from the drama Moving on 
Luke Littler hints he will BOYCOTT tournaments in one country in cryptic social media post - after something he 'can't explain' happened there
Man United star Victor Lindelof's wife reveals the shocking real reason why he had to suddenly leave their Europa League win over Lyon mid-match
Watch: The moment Troy Deeney is SENT OFF on his Baller League debut - with former Watford star sparking brawl after clashing with opponent
Sheffield United star has to be held back as rival players clash during pitch invasion - after Burnley are promoted back to the Premier League
Federico Valverde scores stunning stoppage time winner as Real Madrid keep title hopes alive - while suspended Kylian Mbappe is BOOED in the stands by furious fans
Furious Max Verstappen hits out at F1's rulers and insists people 'can't handle the truth'... as a five-second penalty costs him in Saudi Arabia with rival Oscar Piastri claiming victory
Declan Rice gifted signed guitar by Ed Sheeran and challenged to 'play it next time' they meet - after the pair duetted at the England camp during Euro 2020
Ben Whittaker DENIES spitting at Liam Cameron's corner after being branded 'classless' by TV commentator for his reaction after second round victory
Tom Aspinall appears to aim a savage dig at Jon Jones over the UFC legend's doping history - as negotiations for huge heavyweight title fight drag on
Dimitri Payet's former mistress claims he 'forced her to film vile sex acts' and lifts lid on their 'fake wedding' behind wife of 20 years' back
Rory McIlroy's rumoured ex Amanda Balionis back on TV for the first time since his Masters win He became sixth man to clinch career Grand Slam 
Kobbie Mainoo posts throwback photo of himself wearing rival's kit to leave fans stunned as Man United star celebrates his 20th birthday
Cardiff place Aaron Ramsey in charge after sacking Omer Riza - with Arsenal legend given three games to save club from relegation
Nicky Butt 'is cautioned by police as he is revealed as the man who headbutted a security guard after being spotted urinating at his birthday party'
Inside the beating heart of Goodison Park as Everton fans prepare to bid farewell to the ground that has united their community for 133 years
Rory McIlroy pictured arriving in Belfast as Masters champion steps off $70million private jet after travelling with daughter Poppy
Lewis Hamilton is blasted as 'f***ing dangerous' by F1 star at Saudi Arabian GP as Ferrari driver learns fate after investigation into incident
Paul Scholes sparks concern over his appearance during TV punditry gig for Man United's win over Lyon He was on punditry duty on Thursday night 
Doting dad Cristiano Ronaldo shows his softer side as footballer playfully celebrates daughter's 3rd birthday with heartwarming Instagram post
Neymar is carted off pitch in tears after ANOTHER injury blow, as joy of 100th home game for boyhood side Santos turns to despair Sad and familiar sight 
Jude Bellingham breaks silence after Real Madrid's humbling Champions League defeat by Arsenal - following clashes with Rice and Saka
Incredible moment the third fastest woman EVER turns up to her son's sports day mums' race... and shows no mercy Olympian at play 
Harry Kane fights back tears in front of fans as England captain's career-long trophy drought stretches past 15 years with Bayern Munich's shock defeat
Serena Williams claims she would have been 'banned for TWENTY YEARS' if tennis superstar had failed doping test like world No1 Jannik Sinner
Rory McIlroy's wife Erica Stoll reacts to 'mystery blonde' who hugged him after Masters win Came after he had celebrated with family 
Myles Lewis-Skelly pokes fun at Antonio Rudiger after Real Madrid defender got away with STAMP on teenage star during Arsenal's victory
Arsenal WAGs enjoy memorable night in Madrid as Bukayo Saka's girlfriend Tolami Benson celebrates win over Real Champions League win 
Scottie Scheffler reveals the truth behind Rory McIlroy Green Jacket moment after backlash for 'classless' move World No 1's exit 
Harriet Dart's spikiest on-court moments: A cut-throat rivalry and rows with umpires - after Brit star told opponent who smelt 'really bad' to put deodorant on
Olympics gender-row boxer Imane Khelif reveals body transformation plans to fight at the next Games - with eyes on another gold medal
Sport's ultimate power couple 'in deep CRISIS': Ex-Man United star Bastian Schweinsteiger and tennis ace Ana Ivanovic 'face marriage split after nine years'
British star Harriet Dart issues apology for asking umpire to tell her opponent to put deodorant on - before French player delivers hilarious response
Watch Unai Emery's priceless reactions to Aston Villa missing two golden chances to draw level with PSG in dramatic Champions League exit
Embarrassing moment Aston Villa play EUROPA LEAGUE anthem instead of Champions League theme as players line up for crunch quarter-final 
Princes William and George are joined by the Duke and Duchess of Westminster to watch Aston Villa's thrilling Champions League battle against PSG
Speedway champion Tai Woffinden provides health update after life-threatening crash left him in a coma He was airlifted to hospital for emergency treatment after collision 
Former Man United Premier League winner, 43, looks unrecognisable as he blends in with fans on his Old Trafford return Remember him? 
Tennis fans blast 'disrespectful' British star Harriet Dart after she asked umpire to tell her opponent to put DEODORANT on in mid-match complaint
Snooker star reveals he almost died from being spiked with KETAMINE on a night out as he thanks manager for saving his life
Rory McIlroy's chef reveals what could be on the menu for his Champions Dinner after Master win - and it's not Irish stew! Food for thought 
Inside the lavish $22m mansion that Rory McIlroy shares with wife Erica Stoll and daughter Poppy - as Masters champion returns home after Augusta triumph 
World Cup winner reveals rare genetic condition that leaves doctors wondering 'how he can WALK' - and reveals what he should have done sooner
Cristiano Ronaldo's girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez shows off her huge 'engagement ring', weeks after he gave a savage reason for why he hasn't married her
Henry blasts Man United player for doing something he's 'never seen before' - as Carragher compares them to under-FIVES for goal conceded at Newcastle 
Bizarre error sees the WRONG Fulham player subbed off - with fuming boss Marco Silva told the decision can't be reversed after five-minute delay
EXCLUSIVE Rory McIlroy in line to be awarded freedom of his hometown after thrilling Masters victory completed career Grand Slam
Jack Grealish 'racks up £5,000 bar bill and copies Wolf of Wall Street gesture as Man City star parties in swanky London nightclub' 
Chelsea's toxic atmosphere is laid bare in new Stamford Bridge footage after Enzo Maresca appeared to go to war with his own fans after Ipswich draw
Football fans left perplexed and confused as Real Madrid legend Luka Modric, 39, becomes minority owner at mid-table Championship club
Barcelona women's star who touched an opponent's genitals and asked 'do you have a d***' during a match is BANNED for 'inappropriate touching'
Newcastle star Dan Burn hailed as a 'legend' after being filmed pushing a stranger's broken-down car to safety Video goes viral 
Heartbreak for Tom Brady as Birmingham City lose EFL Trophy final after NFL legend jets in for Wembley clash Beaten by Peterborough 
Kylian Mbappe sent off for 'disgusting' horror challenge - just days before Real Madrid's crucial Champions League clash against Arsenal
EXCLUSIVE Michael Schumacher signs Jackie Stewart crash helmet - with the aid of his wife - for charity auction... 12 years after horror skiing accident
Conor McGregor puts $500,000 bet on UFC 314 showdown between Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett after teasing potential comeback fight
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admitted to hospital and will miss Magpies' clash with Man United Howe had felt unwell earlier in week 
Tammy Abraham starts PRAYING after horrendous head clash knocked out AC Milan team-mate The sickening collision left Abraham concerned 
Shocking moment Masters star Max Homa smashes shot into helpless caddie... before screaming at him US star had a moment to forget 
Mohamed Salah SIGNS new £380,000-per-week Liverpool deal as club's owners break their own golden rule to keep 'The Egyptian King'
Andre Onana could be DROPPED for Man United's trip to Newcastle after Lyon horror show - as Ruben Amorim prepares to wield the axe
You can afford a couple more of those now, Mo! Salah shows off £725,000 watch at his Liverpool new £50m contract signing presentation
Football's podcast war: Gary Lineker sticks the knife into rival Gary Neville's pod for 'languishing miles behind' while he rakes in £1.4m profit
Manchester United supporters accuse French police of tear-gassing them after being kept behind in the stadium following 2-2 draw in Lyon
Paul Scholes blasts Andre Onana for his two blunders in Man United's 2-2 draw against Lyon - as goalkeeper endures nightmare evening
Luke Littler upstaged by hometown hero Nathan Aspinall in Manchester - as 'The Asp' claims Premier League Darts win in front of Wayne Rooney
Conor McGregor posts training clip - teasing comeback and declares which UFC 314 fight he is 'interested' in Will we see a return? 
Prince William goes through emotional rollercoaster watching his beloved Aston Villa in Paris as he relishes 'making really important memories' with George
Rory McIlroy's daughter Poppy upstages her dad with astonishing putt at iconic Masters Par-3 contest Poppy lit up Augusta 
Jude Bellingham's dismissive reaction to manager Carlo Ancelotti caught in new footage from Arsenal loss - with Real Madrid boss 'mortally wounded'
Injured Gabriel is glued to his seat under a blanket as his wife goes wild at Arsenal's Champions League win over Real Madrid Warm celebrations 
Meet the owners of 1,900-square-foot house next to Masters golf course who have turned down MILLIONS to sell to Augusta National owners
Fans hail 'humble' Rice for his brilliant interview with Arsenal legend Henry after scoring TWO free-kicks in Champions League win over Real Madrid
Three Real stars called out for 'no sign of life' in Spanish press after loss at Arsenal: 'Tragedy in London'... 'A shipwreck'... 'Humiliation'
Fans joke Micah Richards could be SACKED for 'crude' on-air gag that left Jamie Carragher in stitches Remark saw Carragher burst out laughing 
Kylian Mbappe's priceless reaction to Declan Rice scoring TWO incredible free-kicks in 12 minutes as Arsenal secure dominant Champions League win
Jockey who was banned after riding tragic Celebre d'Allen at Grand National DELETES his social media following backlash from Aintree
Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn Live: Start time, undercard, scorecard and round-by-round updates as Chris...
Barcelona vs Real Madrid - Copa Del Rey Final: Live score, team news and updates as Mbappe free-kick brings...
Chris Eubank breaks his silence on his shock arrival for son Jr's showdown with Conor Benn and reveals that...
Inside Wrexham's historic promotion: Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's spine-tingling speeches, expletive...
Crystal Palace 3-0 Aston Villa: Oliver Glasner's side reach FA Cup final after stunning goals from Eberechi...
Crystal Palace 3-0 Aston Villa - PLAYER RATINGS: Which Eagles star put on a performance they will never...
Maya Jama joins Marcus Rashford and Declan Rice ringside for Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn clash - as...
Eberechi Eze is Crystal Palace's FA Cup semi-final winning star forged in 'Concrete Catalonia' and being...
Chris Eubank Jr's weight cut has turned this fight on its head - from physicality to temperament, here's...
Ian Wright REJECTS Eni Aluko's apology, as he breaks silence on her accusing him of 'blocking' opportunities...
Ipswich RELEGATED from the Premier League after 3-0 loss at Newcastle - as Eddie Howe makes dugout return...
Where IS Cole Palmer going? Fans mock Chelsea star's BIZARRE sprint away from Stamford Bridge after beating...
Matheus Cunha has Man United fans licking their lips as irrepressible Red Devils' target inspires Wolves to...
'I just want to give him a hug': Mail Sport sits down with David 'Bumble' Lloyd to watch the harrowing...
Wrexham's Hollywood fairy-tale continues as Ryan Reynolds and wife Blake Lively celebrate famous win over...
PLAY TEAMSHEET: Can YOU name the Fulham team from their 2-2 draw with Chelsea back in 2006? Or pick YOUR...
GRAEME SOUNESS: Morgan Gibbs-White is a super talent, up there with the best. But there's one area he can...
Bruno Fernandes has gone from unsuitable Man United captain to their 'glue' and 'social connector'... he...
Inside Leeds United's return to 'The Promised Land' - and what they will do next: Four summer signing...
Fans blast 'appalling' ring conditions ahead of Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn's showdown as fighters slip...
- Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn Live: Start time, undercard, scorecard and round-by-round updates as Chris Eubank Sr arrives with his son for bitter grudge match after branding him 'a disgrace'
- Ian Wright REJECTS Eni Aluko's apology, as he breaks silence on her accusing him of 'blocking' opportunities for women in football
- Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively jet in as Wrexham close in on promotion to the Championship - as Deadpool star pours pints and parties with fans ahead of crunch Charlton clash
- Copa del Rey final thrown into chaos as Real Madrid withdraw from pre-match activities and match official breaks down CRYING in response to critical video shared by Los Blancos' in-house TV channel
- Chris Eubank Jr MAKES the weight for grudge showdown with Conor Benn on Saturday night - coming in 0.6lbs under 170lbs limit
- White men 'blocked' from applying for jobs at Premier League clubs including Man United and Liverpool, as they advertise 'only to women and ethnic minority candidates'
- The Eubanks are REUNITED: Father and son bury the hatchet as Chris Eubank Sr walks side-by-side with Jr on night old family feud is settled against Conor Benn
- Inside Chris Eubank Sr's fractured relationship with son Jr after fighter ignored boxing legend father's desperate pleas to abandon 'illegal' fight with Conor Benn
- Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa - FA Cup RECAP: Eagles blow Unai Emery's sorry side away to reach final
- Dimitri Payet insists relationship with former mistress was 'consensual' in new testimony after ex-girlfriend accused ex-West Ham star of 'forcing her to film bizarre sex acts' and 'drink her own urine'
- Humiliating NFL Draft moment as Shedeur Sanders' dreams are crushed by brutal prank call
- Wayne Rooney's son leaves fans in stitches with hilarious drawing of Man United legend
- Chris Eubank Sr launches fresh attack on son ahead of crunch Conor Benn showdown - claiming he 'has never understood what boxing is about'
- How to train like Conor Benn: 156-pound fighter details hour-by-hour plan he is using to beat Chris Eubank Jr
- Chelsea vs Everton - Premier League RECAP: Nicolas Jackson breaks his barren spell with his first goal of 2025 as Blues boost their hopes of securing Champions League football
- PREMIER LEAGUE RECAP: Brighton and Fulham net dramatic late winners as Newcastle send Ipswich back to the Championship
- Shedeur Sanders' NFL Draft nightmare continues as humiliated QB plummets out of third round in worst slide in history... despite Trump's demand
- Maya Jama joins Marcus Rashford and Declan Rice ringside for Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn clash - as other stars including Idris Elba and KSI also settle in for grudge bout
- Boxing's most bitter fight night: Chris Eubank Jr takes on Conor Benn, son of his famous father's greatest rival, but Chris Sr refuses to attend amid a failed drugs test, 'egg-gate' - and a promoter who's dating the opposition's sister
- Darwin Nunez appears to aim DIG at Liverpool in now-deleted tweet amid speculation over his future
- MOST READ IN DETAIL
