Eddie Jones expects tough time from Australia on summer tour

By Paul Vinnell

Image: England celebrate with the Six Nations trophy

Eddie Jones is expecting a hard time from his Australian compatriots when he returns in June aiming to lead England to more success.

Jones led the Wallabies for four years, including a home World Cup final defeat by England in 2003, before being ousted.

He is relishing the "intense" atmosphere of a tour down under as he tries to build on England's recent Six Nations Grand Slam.

Asked if he expects to be targeted by the Australian media as a potential 'traitor', Jones replied: "I am a target here [England] so it is not going to make much difference!

"That's part of the game. If it does help take some of the pressure off the players then that can only be a good thing. It doesn't bother me.

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Image: Eddie Jones addresses the media after their Grand Slam win

"I think they will be respectful about what we have done regarding the Grand Slam. Well, as respectful as Australians can be!

"It definitely sets things up for a fantastic series on June 11 [the date of the first Test, in Brisbane], and that's very important."

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Jones, who took over after hosts England were knocked out of last year's World Cup in the pool phase following a 33-13 defeat by Australia, added: "It's nice to go down there with what they will see as a resurgent England team.

"Australia had France out there two years ago and, to be quite honest, the three Tests were quite morbid. They weren't great. France didn't front up at all. They were pretty poor events and the crowds were poor.

"But they are going to see an England side full of energy, full of life, that wants to play positive rugby and is going to take it to the Aussies. It is going to be a tough and intense tour but it will also be an exciting one."

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