England coach Eddie Jones has been fired less than a year out from the Rugby World Cup.

Jones was fired after seven years in charge of the national team.

The Rugby Football Union has acted in response to a dismal autumn that concluded England’s worst year since 2008, comprising of six defeats, a draw and five wins.

The Australian mentor was contracted until the end of next year’s World Cup but now looks set to be replaced by his former No.2 Steve Borthwick, Leicester’s director of rugby.

In its statement announcing is dismissal, the RFU revealed forwards coach Richard Cockerill will take charge of England on an interim basis.

Jones learned on Monday evening his England reign was over, with confirmation coming during a meeting with Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney at Twickenham on Tuesday morning.

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“It’s important to recognise the huge contribution Eddie has made to English rugby, winning three Six Nations, one Grand Slam and taking us to a World Cup final,” Sweeney said.

“He has the highest win ratio of any England head coach and has helped develop the leadership skills of many players and coaches.

“I’m grateful to Eddie for all he has done for England across many areas of the game and the professional way in which he has approached reviewing the performance of the team.

“He has provided the panel with astute insight and meaningful lessons that will support the team performance going forward.”

In a statement released by the RFU, Jones said: “I am pleased with much that we have achieved as an England team, and I look forward to watching the team’s performance in the future.

“Many of the players and I will no doubt keep in touch, and I wish them all well in their future careers.”

-Reuters