Lancaster lands Saxons job

Excited man: Lancaster keen to develop youth

The RFU have announced that Head of Elite Player Development Stuart Lancaster will take charge of England Saxons this season.

Former Leeds boss Lancaster succeeds Steve Bates, who guided the Saxons to a second successive Churchill Cup title in June before relinquishing his international duties after being named Newcastle's Director of Rugby.

"This is a great opportunity to coach at international level," said Lancaster, whose coaching team has yet to be confirmed.

"As well as developing my coaching skills, it's an exciting opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge on the best young players coming through the system."

Many of England's senior players have passed through the Saxons' ranks, including Danny Cipriani, Paul Sackey, James Haskell, Tom Rees and Tom Croft.

And the new 32-man England Saxons Elite Player Squad, which was announced on July 1 will join the senior EPS squad for a week long training camp later this month.

"Training alongside the senior team will help create a consistency of playing style between the teams and give the players the best possible opportunity to step up the highest level," Lancaster added.

"I hope to provide a clear pathway for the players currently playing in the Guinness Premiership who will become England's future internationals, not only those in the Saxons squad but also those who have just missed out or have stepped out of the England U20s and have potential for the future.

"By creating a consistent style of play between the Saxons and seniors and working closely with the National Academy coaches and age group sides, we can ensure that all our players have a clear understanding of the systems and structures required from the top."