Japan captain Michael Leitch says they are still using some of Cumbrian Steve Borthwick’s coaching techniques.

England’s Carlisle-born forwards coach Borthwick became Japan forwards coach in 2012 and coached Japan until 2015 before taking his role with England.

Borthwick helped Japan mastermind their stunning World Cup 34-32 success over South Africa in Brighton in 2015.

But Bath favourite Borthwick will come up against Japan tomorrow at Twickenham (3pm kick-off).

Leitch, though, says Japan are using elements of Borthwick’s coaching, some three years on as he praised the 39-year-old.

“Steve was fantastic; he was a guy I could really rely on,” Leitch said.

“His expertise and leadership was something that really helped me in the four years’ preparation for the World Cup.

“His expertise at line-out, maul, some of that detail and some of the standards he brought into the team are still here.”

Cumbrian Mark Wilson, meanwhile, has kept his place in England’s side.

But Kendal-born Wilson, who began his junior rugby career at Penrith, will switch from number eight to openside flanker.

In total, there are 11 changes to the England side which faced New Zealand last weekend.

Leicester Tigers’ George Ford will start at fly half and captain England in his 50th match.