Wales boss Warren Gatland has officially ruled himself out of the running to become England's next head coach by claiming that he is "not interested" in the job.
The 52-year-old remains under contract with the Welsh Rugby Union until the 2019 Rugby World Cup, and he intends to honour that deal in full.
England, who are on the lookout for a new coach following the departure of Stuart Lancaster earlier this week, were thought to be interested in luring Gatland from Wales's grasp.
Reports that the New Zealander was tempted to make the controversial switch promoted the WRU to issue a response on Friday, while Gatland himself has now reiterated that he has no desire to jump ship.
"I'm not interested in the England job," he told Wales Online, 24 hours after the Welsh governing body's chairman stated: "Warren is happy in Wales and as far as I am concerned he isn't going anywhere."
Jake White remains the favourite to take over the vacant managerial position at Twickenham, as England aim to rebuild following a disappointing World Cup showing.
Daniel Lewis
