Former Scotland wing Byron McGuigan will join England's coaching team for the November internationals and Six Nations while retaining his full-time job of defence coach with Prem club Sale, the Rugby Football Union said on Thursday.
McGuigan, 36, who started with Sale last November, initially joined England coach Steve Borthwick's lengthy list of assistants during the successful summer tour of Argentina and the United States.
He will have dual duties, working closely with assistant coach Andrew Strawbridge on the collision area, helping to develop players’ contact skills, while also focusing on the back three to "help enhance their skills and tactical understanding."
“Byron is a knowledgeable and driven coach with a real passion for improving players,” said Borthwick.
“He has an excellent understanding of the game, both as an international player and now as a coach. I’m looking forward to the impact he’ll make during the autumn.”
McGuigan was brought up in Cape Town and played for the Border Bulldogs before moving to Glasgow Warriors. He then made over 100 appearances for Sale and earned 10 Scotland caps from 2017-20 after qualifying through his Glasgow-born mother.
“It was a huge privilege to be involved during the summer, and I’m excited to be back to contribute to the team,” McGuigan said.
“I’m very grateful to Sale for supporting me in taking on this opportunity alongside my club role. It’s a fantastic chance to continue developing as a coach while contributing to both teams.”
England play Australia on November 1, with further tests against Fiji, New Zealand and Argentina - all at Twickenham.
