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Rugby Union

England interested in White

04/11/2007

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) have expressed an interest in speaking to South African World Cup-winning coach Jake White, according to his agent.

Craig Livingstone claims that he has spoken to the RFU's director of elite performance, Rob Andrew, who is in charge of appointing the next England coach.

Many experts felt that Brian Ashton would be given the opportunity to take the role after coaching the side to the final of the World Cup.

However, since the final a number of senior players have publicly criticised Ashton and the RFU could be convinced to look further afield.

Livingstone told the Sunday Times: "[The RFU] have been in touch. England are busy with the review process and then they will make a decision.

"We've expressed an interest [in the England coaching job] and so have they. We've been talking to Rob Andrew."

White had been linked with the vacant positions in Wales and Australia but Livingstone denied that the 44-year-old coach would be taking either position on Friday.

"He's made no decision on his future, but I can confirm he's definitely not applying for the Wallabies job. He's also unlikely to pursue a career with Wales," Livingstone told the Star newspaper.

White has previously indicated he would like to take on the England role due to the resources available to the RFU.

Speaking soon after the World Cup, he said: "England is probably one job most international coaches wouldn't mind taking because it's a power that can become a huge force. They have a great rugby culture."