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Eddie Jones a 'massive inspiration' to England squad on visit

TWICKENHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 20:  Eddie Jones, the England head coach faces the media at a conference held at Twickenham Stadium on March 20, 2017 in Twicke
Image: Eddie Jones had his brains picked by the England football team this week

Gareth Southgate's squad have held an "inspirational" meeting with England rugby head coach Eddie Jones ahead of their World Cup Qualifier against Lithuania.

The Australian, who led the England rugby team on an 18-match winning run to equal the All Blacks' world record this year, took a talk with Southgate's men at the England team hotel this week.

England and Southampton full-back Ryan Bertrand says the team were fascinated by Jones and interrogated the 57-year-old about how he led his players to such a remarkable feat.

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"He was a massive inspiration," Bertrand said. "For me personally, he was sure. He's a very confident man. He's very into his work and as long as you work hard you'll get success.

"They were on the edge of a fantastic, record-breaking run and we really dug deep to find out what was achieved and what measures he put in to bring sustainable success, not temporary success.

"It was a real eye-opener and the squad came out of the meeting a lot closer and with ideas a lot clearer about how to achieve that."

SAINT-ETIENNE, FRANCE - JUNE 20: Ryan Bertrand of England and Robert Mak of Slovakia compete for the ball during the UEFA EURO 2016 Group B match between S
Image: Ryan Bertrand says Jones was "inspirational" to listen to

Since taking the England helm, initially on a temporary basis following Sam Allardyce's sacking, Southgate has made a point of empowering his players.

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Bertrand said: "It's been a breath of fresh air to be part of an England team where he gives us the mantle.

"We leave no stone unturned, tactically, but he also allows us to express ourselves and encourages us to do that.

"There's more responsibility within the group. Every time we have meetings, it's very mutual. Thoughts are shared between the team and the coaching staff.

"We're encouraged to dissect things and come to conclusions ourselves, reflect as a whole rather than being solely led by the manager."

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