England sack Eddie Jones - as Steve Borthwick tipped to replace him

Jones' reign as head coach of England men's rugby union team was ended today.

It followed a poor run of autumn results, dashing Jones' plan to step down after next year's World Cup.

The Rugby Football Union's board confirmed the decision today after a series of meetings, and the organisation say "succession planning" will be confirmed soon.

While Richard Cockerill has been put in interim charge, Carlisle-born Borthwick, the head coach of Leicester Tigers, is widely reported to be the likely candidate to replace Jones.

If former England captain Borthwick lands the position it would be the second time in three appointments that the RFU have gone for a Cumbrian in English rugby union's top job.

Stuart Lancaster, from Culgaith, was Australian Jones' predecessor.

Steve Borthwick (Image: PA)

In a statement, RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney said: "It is important to recognise the huge contribution Eddie has made to English rugby, winning three Six Nations Championships, one Grand Slam and taking us to a Rugby World Cup Final.

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

"I am 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."

Jones, commenting in the England statement, added: "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."