Jim Mallinder has hit out at the way this crucial period of Northampton’s season has been undermined by the RFU’s unofficial approaches to his backs coach, Alex King, to become part of the England setup.

“As a club, we’ve had no official contact at all, so we’re in the dark,” he said. “Alex King is a key part of our coaching staff. We’re in a vital part of the season building up to a massive game this week. What you don’t want to hear is that somebody is talking to one of your coaches.”

Eddie Jones, England’s new head coach, met King before Northampton’s 9 – 9 home draw with Racing 92. Jones has indicated that he will look after England’s attack but it is thought he might be interested in King as an assistant in that department, which may yet allow for a part-time arrangement whereby King continues with Northampton.

Should the RFU try to prise King away, Northampton have two models to choose from for their next move – that of Saracens, who have agreed to release Paul Gustard as defence coach (although they received an official approach from the RFU), or Bristol, who are demanding punitive compensation for the signature of Steve Borthwick as coach of the forwards.

“It’s very early to discuss that,” said Mallinder. “We don’t know if Alex will be the new backs coach or not. Alex has told me that he’s met him and that’s all I know. It was informal and a very general chat. All I can say is that it’s not helped our preparation this week. I’d have thought that, if an organisation wants to speak to one of your employees, what you do is contact the club and do it officially. That’s what would happen with Premier Rugby if we wanted to speak to another player or coach.”

Mallinder was more phlegmatic about speculation linking Dylan Hartley to the England captaincy. “He’s an obvious candidate. He’s the most experienced rugby player in terms of caps, he’s got experience of captaining Northampton, so it comes as no surprise,” he said.

Hartley is back in training, following his concussion six weeks ago, and is close to a return but Kieran Brookes is Northampton’s next worry, picking up a twisted knee. Tom Wood remains a couple of weeks away from fitness.

theguardian