Jones ‘personable’ approach helping Vunipola

Editor

England number eight Billy Vunipola feels that Eddie Jones' approach is getting the best out of him since the Australian came onboard.

Vunipola delivered a Man of the Match performance at Murrayfield in England's win last Saturday.

Describing how Jones' personable approach was making him feel comfortable within the England camp, Vunipola revealed that the methods used by Jones were paying off.

"I respond to the love and compassion Eddie shows the boys, me especially. He is very personable," Vunipola said.

"He has been really good for me since he came in. He has just filled me with confidence and that is something I thrive on.

"I don't need someone to shout at me. I know what I have to do. I just need someone to reassure me and look after me."

Vunipola also revealed that the England players felt closer togther as a group ahead of facing Italy in Rome on Sunday.

"We have had a few bonding sessions. It's important for me to know what someone else is about, what motivates them, whether that be their family or scoring tries," Vunipola added.

"You just try to help them or the team in that way. It's something you can't really measure or see but I definitely think it works.

"For some reason we've taken that tack this time and hopefully it'll work for us in the long run. It's too early to tell but I'm enjoying being with the boys and being in camp.

"You're more comfortable with someone you work alongside when you know what motivates them, what interests them, or you know what you can do to help them.

"It works better when you have a relationship with someone rather than just rocking up and playing for England

"If we end up winning the trophy then you can definitely take that into account. But that's a big maybe. We've just got to keep working hard."