Marler retirement a ‘bombshell’ for England coach Jones

The Guardian describes Joe Marler’s decision to retire from international rugby as a “bombshell” for England head coach Eddie Jones.

Marler, 28, wants to spend more with his young family and informed Jones that he would not be adding to his 59 England caps.

“It is an incredible commitment to play rugby for England and I strongly believe that if you are unable to give yourself fully to it then it is time to step away,” said the Harlequins prop.

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“Otherwise it would not be fair on the team, or my family. Being with England you have to spend an incredible amount of time away and I could not do that anymore.”

With just 12 months until the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan Marler’s retirement is a huge blow for the England head coach, says The Daily Telegraph.

Jones will now be without one of his most seniors players, but he praised Marler’s honesty in making such a big decision.

“Joe is a great player and team member so I am disappointed and we will miss him,” said Jones. “But he has made his decision on personal grounds and we understand his reasoning.

“He’s a good guy - an honest, mature person who understands the demands of the game and the demands of family life.

“I have got to admire his honesty and the way he has gone about this.”

Last week Jones announced a 36-man training squad for a camp held in Bristol from Sunday to Tuesday. Marler was originally included before being replaced by 23-year-old Exeter Chiefs prop Ben Moon.

Jones will name his next England squad on 18 October ahead of the four autumn international matches.

England’s autumn international fixtures

England vs. South Africa

• When: Saturday 3 November
• Where: Twickenham, London
• Kick-off time: 3pm

England vs. New Zealand

• When: Saturday 10 November
• Where: Twickenham, London
• Kick-off time: 3pm

England vs. Japan

• When: Saturday 17 November
• Where: Twickenham, London
• Kick-off time: 3pm

England vs. Australia

• When: Saturday 24 November
• Where: Twickenham, London
• Kick-off time: 3pm