Mallinder happy at Northampton
Northampton Saints Director of Rugby Jim Mallinder, who has been linked with a possible England role, has said he has had no contact with England and is focusing on his duties at Franklins Gardens.
Northampton Saints Director of Rugby Jim Mallinder, who has been linked with a possible England role, has said he has had no contact with England and is focusing on his duties at Franklins Gardens.
The Saints, relegated from England's top flight last season, have secured automatic promotion and will be back in the Guinness Premiership next season. And Mallinder has said he is firmly focused on preparing his side for their return.
Martin Johnson, England's new Team Manager, is looking to fill the vacant backs coach position with the national squad, and their is rising speculation that Mallinder is the man he wants. Mike Catt and Austin Healy are also being touted as possible candidates.
However Keith Barwell, Northampton's Chairman, has promised to double Mallinder's wages to keep him at the East Midlands club.
Mallinder was understandably delighted to hear such backing from Barwell, and made it clear he had not received a phone call from Johnson or the RFU.
“It is some good press speculation,” Mallinder told The Northampton Chronicle and Echo.
“I have got my mind focused on Northampton and getting the team ready and competitive for the Premiership and doing well next season in the top flight.
“It is really nice for the fans, and particularly Keith, to be so supportive. It is very encouraging from my point of view.
“My mind is focused on Northampton and the club doing well in the Premiership next season.”
Whilst Mallinder was happy to confirm his own intentions for next season he would not be drawn on speculation that Northampton are on the verge of signing South African international Victor Matfield.
Matfield, currently playing in France's Pro D2 with Toulon, is out of contract at the end of the current season and Northampton are currently looking for another second row.
The 30-year-old World Cup winner could draw a £375,000 salary if he heads to Franklins Gardens, although there are several other Super 14 and French sides vying for his signature.
“We said a few weeks ago, we are always on the look out for quality international players and players who can add to the squad, and we are continuing to search for players we can add to our squad for next season,” Mallinder said.
“When we get any more of those signed up we will let you know.”