Rugby-El-Abd joins England as defence coach

FILE PHOTO: Rugby Union - Bristol Rugby v Toulon 2008/09 European Challenge Cup Pool Two - Memorial Ground - 17/10/08 Joe El Abd of Bristol celebrates scoring the third try Mandatory Credit: Action Images / Paul Harding Livepic/File Photo

LONDON (Reuters) - Joe El-Abd has agreed to become England's defence coach alongside Steve Borthwick following the surprise resignation of Felix Jones last month, the RFU said on Thursday.

El-Abd, 44, moves from French second division club Oyonnax and will be in place for England's November internationals against New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and Japan.