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England places up for grabs against Australia, says Eddie Jones

Eddie Jones, head coach of England celebrates winning the RBS Six Nations and the Grand Slam
Image: Eddie Jones says every place is up for grabs in his England sqaud

Eddie Jones says no one from his Six Nations squad is guaranteed a starting place when England tour Australia in June.

Jones' comments come just two days after his side's 31-21 win against France in Paris - a victory which sealed England's first Grand Slam victory in 13 years.

The 56 year-old Australian met up with Leicester's director of rugby Richard Cockerill on Monday to discuss his individually-tailored plans for the Tiger's international contingent.

And Jones, who is expected to also visit Bath, Saracens and Northampton later this week, says no one in his current England squad can afford to become complacent. 

"All 15 places in the team are up for grabs. Everyone's got to keep improving," Jones said.

"Billy Vunipola has got to keep improving, as good a player as he was in the Six Nations. If he comes back and he's not in good physical condition, he's not mentally good, he's not going to be in the team.

Billy Vunipola charges upfield against France
Image: England secured their first Grand Slam for 13 years with victory over France on Saturday

"If you look at the benchmark of world rugby, the All Blacks, why did they consistently improve over eight years to win the World Cup twice? Because their players kept improving individually.

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"And that's the challenge for these players. To win a Grand Slam is just a start. To keep improving is the challenge.

"Everyone wants the players to do well. We want the players to go back to their clubs and play like international players and be outstanding for their clubs.

"That'll make them better when they come into consideration for the Australia tour."

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Eddie Jones outlines his targets as England's head coach after leading them to a first Six Nations grand-slam for 13 years

England head coaches in the past have often struggled to build positive relationships with Premiership clubs regarding the use of international players. However, Jones believes he can strike the right balance for clubs and country. 

"Whatever circumstance you've got, you've got to work out the best solution. We have a good solution here in England," he said.

"There are high-quality clubs who are well resourced with good coaching staff, good strength and conditioning coaches and good facilities.

Billy Vunipola charges upfield against France
Image: England secured their first Grand Slam for 13 years with victory over France on Saturday

"If we can work with them to make sure the players are doing the things they need to do, to be at their best for the club and the best for their country then we have a good solution.

"And then it comes down to whether we have enough talent and desire to do it.

"Hopefully everyone sees that England are going in the right direction and that can only be healthy for the game. World rugby is definitely healthier for a strong England side."

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