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England scrum-half Richard Wigglesworth impressed by coach Paul Gustard

Paul Gustard defence and forwards Coach of Saracens issues instructions to his side
Image: Defence and forwards coach Paul Gustard expected to join up with Eddie Jones at England

Richard Wigglesworth says the players are "in for a treat" once Saracens assistant coach Paul Gustard joins the England backroom staff.

Sarries defence and forwards brain Gustard is reportedly on the verge of becoming the latest man to join England's coaching team.

Gustard has made his name with his 'Wolf Pack' defence, and Wigglesworth, 32, who has won 27 England caps and was part of 2011 and 2015 World Cup squads, believes his club coach constantly evolves his thinking and his tactics.

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA - JUNE 11:  England coach Paul Gustard in action during England rugby training at the club de Gimnasia y Esgrima on June 11, 2013
Image: Gustard worked with England in the summer of 2013 when Andy Farrell and Graham Rowntree were away with the Lions

He told Sky Sports News HQ: "He's got a way of getting you enthusiastic about defending and doing that side of the job.

"He's loved by everyone here [at Saracens] which, as a coach, is a pretty hard thing to do. He's a quality coach and a good bloke to boot.

"If he does go, I'm not sure what the situation is, the lads will love him and, if he's given free reign at meetings they're in for a treat.

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"He wants you to hunt as a team. He doesn't want anyone to defend on their own so it's about backing each other up really," Wigglesworth added ahead of the English league winner's Champions Cup visit of French side Oyonnax, live on Sky Sports 3, on Saturday.

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"He's great and got new ways of inspiring us and keeping us interested in defence."

Sarries director of rugby Mark McCall echoed Wigglesworth's sentiments.

"He's got a great understanding of rugby in the broadest possible sense," the Northern Irishman said on Gustard.

"He's obviously specialised with his defensive play, a great student of the game. Brings a real energy to everything he does.

"He keeps his messages simple and explains in a very clear way and a unique way."

The Rugby Football Union announced on Tuesday that Steve Borthwick had agreed to leave Bristol and join new England boss Jones as his forwards coach.

However, the Championship club later refuted that they had released the former England international from his long-term contract before Sky sources revealed Borthwick had quit Ashton Gate in order to join up with Australian Jones at Twickenham.

Watch Saracens v Oyonnax live on Sky Sports 3 HD on Saturday from 12.30pm. Catch the match for £6.99 on NOW TV. No contract.

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