Stuart Lancaster has had a frank discussion with Manu Tuilagi over his tackling technique after the centre's escape from suspension.
England head coach relieved centre was not suspended
Stuart Lancaster has had a frank discussion with Manu Tuilagi over his tackling technique after he escaped being banned for England's tour of South Africa.
Leicester centre Tuilagi was cited for a tip tackle on Harlequins scrum-half Danny Care two minutes into the Aviva Premiership final at Twickenham on Saturday.
However, the 21-year-old was cleared at a disciplinary hearing on Tuesday after it was successfully proved that Care's knee had hit the ground before his torso.
Although Tuilagi was shown to have controlled Care's return to the ground on this occasion, Lancaster wants to ensure that he does not get into the same position again.
"I have had a one-to-one with every member of the touring party. I had a good conversation with Manu on the strengths of his game and the areas we need to make sure he is on top of," Lancaster said.
"Part of that is tackle technique and discipline. He understands that. He is a young player and still getting experience."
The independent disciplinary panel backed referee Wayne Barnes, who penalised Tuilagi for the tackle but ruled that it was "not dangerous".
Concern
Lancaster added: "I was relieved. There was a concern. I am pleased to see the people in charge found it was dealt with on the pitch at the time. I am delighted he is available."
Lancaster says the whole of his squad ahead are working on their tackling technique in order to prevent any possible flashpoints during the three-Test series against the Springboks.
"The directive is clear and players are working hard to abide to that," Lancaster said.
"It is a difficult one, an 11-stone scrum-half comes running at a 17-stone bloke. Danny said the force of the impact took him off his feet. People recognise Manu's intention was not to hurt anyone.
"We all understand the reason the rule is there. Players just need to be careful if you are picking somebody up.
"When we do video sessions we will highlight areas of 'red flag' - things such as the directives around the breakdown, competing for the ball when the referee calls ruck, being onside and tip tackles."
Once Tuilagi was cleared to play on, Lancaster's concerns switched to the foot injury he suffered in the Premiership final, a game he has not trained since participating in.
Phil Dowson, Anthony Allen and Ugo Monye all sat out training on Wednesday but are expected to be available when the team begin preparations on arrival in South Africa.
