Northampton unhappy over RFU approach for backs coach

Northampton have become the second club to take issue with the Rugby Football Union over its approach to building a new England coaching team. The new England boss Eddie Jones has identified Saints backs coach Alex King as his final appointment, joining Steve Borthwick and Paul Gustard. However, Bristol say they have not given Borthwick permission to leave. And Saints boss Jim Mallinder says Saints have been "kept in the dark" about any approach for King. Northampton say they have "had no formal approach" from the RFU - something described as "disappointing" by Mallinder - and could make an official complaint. Jones has met with former England, Wasps and Clermont fly-half King but Mallinder is unaware of the contents of their conversation.

Northampton 9-9 Racing 92

Northampton were held to a draw by Dan Carter's Racing 92 in Pool Three of the European Champions Cup. Saints suffered a heavy 33-3 defeat in the reverse fixture last weekend. Jim Mallinder's side fared much better in front of a home crowd on Friday but failed to cross the try line. Northampton fly-half Stephen Myler and his Racing counterpart, World Cup winner Carter, kicked three penalties apiece as the two sides were forced to share the points. Saints were down and out by half-time in last weekend's contest in France after going in 18 points behind. The Premiership club were much more competitive in a cagey affair at Franklin's Gardens, but were unable to cross the whitewash and have now scored only one try in their last four games.