Jamie George anticipates that England supporters will show Eddie Jones the respect he merits when he makes his first return to Twickenham as an international coach on Sunday. Jones, who is now with Japan, secured three Six Nations titles as England head coach, including the 2016 grand slam, and led them to the 2019 World Cup final during his seven-year tenure. He won 59 of his 81 Tests, making him the England coach with the highest winning percentage.

Jones’s coaching methods have recently faced significant criticism, particularly following accusations from Danny Care in his autobiography that the Australian fostered a toxic environment, operated a “dictatorship”, and behaved like a “despot who disappeared people” by bullying staff members and players. George, the England captain, stated: “He contributed immensely [to England] and I hold him in very high regard as a coach. I believe he accomplished remarkable things, some of the achievements he secured with the England team were outstanding.

“I am aware that many have voiced their opinions about his methods, and they are fully entitled to their views, but I believe the English fans will undoubtedly give him the respect he deserves.” Jones has coached at Twickenham since his dismissal in December 2022, leading the Barbarians against a World XV in the summer of 2023, and received a mixed reception from the crowd. Jones withdrew from media duties on Friday due to illness, but Japan is confident he will recover in time to be present in the coaching box. His return to Twickenham coincides with England’s current five-match losing streak.

George added: “The English fans will recognize or have recognized the immense effort he invested in the English game. And as I mentioned, I believe we achieved a great deal under his coaching. So yes, I expect [a warm reception] to occur.

“He will be incredibly excited about it. He will also be eager for a victory. He is a master at motivating teams for significant games. I know this is particularly true for him, but for most teams worldwide, playing England at [Twickenham] is a major event.”

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