England full-back Freddie Steward has defended under-fire head coach Steve Borthwick and said it’s the players who should be blamed for the defeat to South Africa. The Red Roses lost a fifth consecutive Test match as they went down 29-20 at Allianz Stadium, prompting speculation over Borthwick’s position.

Small signs of progress have been shown by England this November but Borthwick is under pressure after five consecutive defeats

England head coach Steve Borthwick must choose whether he will stick or twist this Sunday against Japan. Stick with the same core