Ex-England boss Eddie Jones gives awkward response to Danny Care's 'bullying' allegations live on ITV
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Former England rugby coach Eddie Jones faced an awkward exchange during his debut as ITV's Six Nations pundit yesterday, as he was confronted about criticism from his former player Danny Care.
Jones, wearing a beanie hat, appeared as the broadcaster's new star signing for their coverage of Ireland versus England in Dublin.
The Australian found himself in an uncomfortable position when presenter Mark Pougatch raised the issue of allegations made in Care's recent autobiography.
The tense moment came as Jones dulled down his usual off-the-cuff attitude during the pre-match coverage, though his tolerance appeared to wear thin when faced with criticism.
Eddie Jones responded to allegations from Danny Care that he created a 'toxic' environment
ITV
Care's autobiography, released in November, painted a damning picture of Jones's tenure as England head coach as a "bully".
The former scrum-half accused Jones of creating a "toxic" environment within the England camp, where players lived in constant fear.
"We used to say to each other, Just remember, boys, everything's a test, as if we were characters in a dystopian novel," Care wrote in his book.
He revealed the extent of Jones's intimidating leadership style, quoting teammate Jonny May: "He'd walk in for breakfast, head down, muttering, 'Expect anything today, boys, expect anything.'"
The 101-cap international claimed everyone was "bloody terrified" of the Australian coach.
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When confronted about Care's allegations during the broadcast, Jones responded with characteristic dismissiveness.
"I'm still waiting for a copy of his book so if Danny's watching, send me a copy so I can read it!" Jones sneered.
The former England boss then delivered a pointed comment about players' attitudes after being dropped from the squad.
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Danny Care did not hold back on Eddie Jones in his book
PA
"Whenever you tap a player on the back and for that period of time they finish their test career they never have fond memories," Jones remarked.
His response highlighted the ongoing tension between the coach and his former player.
Jones struck a more measured tone when discussing current England coach Steve Borthwick.
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Eddie Jones coached England from 2015 to 2022
PA
"Look, Steve is a very serious coach," Jones said. "He studies the game hard, he's working on his management skills all the time, and he'll develop this team nicely."
Jones, who coached England from 2015 to 2022, winning three Six Nations titles and reaching the 2015 World Cup final, has since had stints with Australia and Japan.
The 65-year-old is set to continue his role as an ITV pundit throughout the current Six Nations tournament.
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