Brett Hodgson lands rugby union coaching role with England

Drew Darbyshire 08 Nov 2022 8:27 AM

Former Hull boss Brett Hodgson has been appointed as defence coach for the England rugby union team, working closely with head coach Eddie Jones.

Australian Hodgson has joined the England coaching staff ahead of this weekend’s game against Japan at Twickenham Stadium.

Hodgson will shadow Anthony Seibold for the rest of the Autumn Nation Series, with the latter returning to rugby league to become head coach of NRL side Manly Sea Eagles.

Hodgson, a former Man of Steel made more than 350 appearances during his rugby league playing career. He moved into coaching following his retirement in 2013 with Widnes, Wests Tigers and Hull.

Hodgson said: “I’m really excited about opportunity to join with England, especially in a Rugby World Cup year.

“I’m really looking forward to working with the staff and this group of players. There is some real talent here and it’s something I feel I can make a contribution to in helping this team succeed.”

Eddie Jones delighted to welcome Brett Hodgson to England rugby union

Jones said: “I’ve known Brett for a few years now. He first visited us in Bristol in 2018 and I’ve been to Hull on a few occasions.

“He was an outstanding league player and he’s a talented, hard-working young coach who is developing. He’ll continue the good work that Anthony Seibold has done since he joined us.

“We are disappointed to lose Anthony but we are really pleased for him as a career move. It’s great to see assistant coaches move on to head coach roles. Anthony leaves with everyone at England Rugby’s thanks and we wish him all the best in his new role.”

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Eddie Jones delighted to welcome Brett Hodgson to England rugby union

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