Leicester Tigers head coach Steve Borthwick says his focus is on the Premiership club’s Champions Cup campaign despite him being linked with the England head coach role.
Borthwick is the favourite to succeed Eddie Jones after the Australian was sacked after the Autumn Nations Series following seven years in charge.
Borthwick silent on England job talk
The Leicester Tigers boss refused to comment on questions about the England job ahead of his side’s Champions Cup opener against Ospreys and remained resolute in his stance after the 23-17 victory.
“I have always said since I started here two years ago that we only look to the next week,” Borthwick said.
“My head is on Clermont next Saturday. As soon as the final whistle happens, my head is on the next game.
“Right now, we should be respectful of this game and this competition. It was a tight game, and I am very proud of the players.”
Anthony Watson’s performance
Borthwick rested a host of top names for the clash with Ospreys as Freddie Steward, Ben Youngs, Julian Montoya and Jasper Wiese missed the encounter.
However, one big name stepped up to the plate with Anthony Watson scoring a stunning solo try to put Tigers in charge in the latter stages.
🔥 Extraordinary individual try from Anthony Watson! Great to see him back fit and firing.#HeinekenChampionsCup #OSPvLEIpic.twitter.com/j1nK5c19UD
— Planet Rugby (@PlanetRugby) December 11, 2022
Watson has struggled with injuries since joining Leicester from Bath earlier this year but looks to be hitting top form again.
Borthwick was full of praise for his British and Irish Lions outside back.
“I thought Anthony played really well and showed his class. I am so pleased for him,” he said.
“He is getting stronger; his pace is getting faster and faster each week. Immense credit to him. He has put in the hard work. He is one of the best players around in his position.
“I thought the character of the team was magnificent. The Ospreys were excellent – 650 caps in their matchday 23 – and we played our heart out and found a way to win.”
Leicester return to Welford Road for round two of the Champions Cup, where they will host Top 14 giants Clermont, who head into the match off the back of a 24-14 win over URC champions, the Stormers.
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