Rugby: El Abd Joins England Men's Team As Defense Coach

Joe El-Abd adorns his portfolio as he joins England men's team as a defense coach.

His new appointment is in preparation for the team's forthcoming Autumn National series. He will be serving as the team's director of rugby at Oyonnax for the 2024/25 season.

Notably, El Abd has had a brilliant career which started as a player for Bath Rugby, Bristol, and Toulon, and he gradually transitioned into a player-coach to Pro D2 outfit Oyonnax and finally to a full coach.

As a Coach at Oyonnax his impacts were iconic at Oyonnax and Casters Olympique. In the 2012/13 season, he helped his side claim Pro D2 champions and qualifying for the Champions Cup for the first time in the club's history in 2014/15. He as well help Casters Olympique secure top 18 tittle in 2018.

Borthwick in a statement trust El Abd credibility and believes his presence as the new team's defense coach will mark remarkable achievement for the team.

El Abd said in an interview:
"I'm delighted to bring in someone with Joe's expertise to our coaching program,"

"His knowledge, passion for the game, and proven experience in developing high-performing teams, will be key to the squad's ongoing development.

"Joe embodies the qualities we value in the England Rugby team and I am sure he will add to our environment and quickly deliver continued improvements to our game."

"I feel incredibly honoured to join the England coaching team, and I can't wait to get started,"

"I am excited by the direction in which this England team is headed and where they want to go under Steve's leadership. His enthusiasm is infectious, and his vision for this team is clear.

"Defence is a huge part of the game and it's something I'm extremely passionate about. I am excited by the opportunity to keep developing a defence that will help drive England's success.

"I'd like to thank everyone at Oyonnax rugby, especially Dougal Bendjaballah for understanding my deep desire to coach the England national team."