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Eddie Jones: Lions will struggle under Warren Gatland's tactics

TWICKENHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 20:  Eddie Jones, the England head coach faces the media at a conference held at Twickenham Stadium on March 20, 2017 in Twicke
Image: Eddie Jones says the Lions will struggle against the All Blacks

England coach Eddie Jones claims the British and Irish Lions will struggle to beat the All Blacks because of their coach Warren Gatland's tactics.

The Lions are expected to favour Gatland's 'Warrenball' approach of powerful, direct running - a style Jones feels may prove difficult to orchestrate against Steve Hansen's side.

"It is going to be very tough for them," Jones told the Daily Telegraph's Full Contact podcast.

"They have picked a certain style of team based on the influence of the Welsh coaches. So I think they are looking to attack like Wales with big, gain-line runners with not much ball movement.

British & Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland and tour manager John Spencer during the British and Irish Lions Squad Announcement at Hilton London Syon P
Image: Warren Gatland's style of play has been called into question by England boss Eddie Jones

"I think you struggle to beat the All Blacks like that."

The Lions arrive in New Zealand on Wednesday and Jones, who led England to the last two Six Nations titles, feels they must capitalise on the All Blacks weaker elements if they are to secure only a second Test series victory in the country since 1971.

Stuart Barnes Talking Points
Stuart Barnes Talking Points

Super Scarlets, excellent Exeter, a look at the Lions and allez Clermont!

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 28:  Warren Gatland, the Lions head coach jokes with attack coach Rob Howley (L) and Andy Farrell (R) during the British and Ir
Image: Warren Gatland led the Lions to victory over Australia on their 2013 tour

"You've got to keep the pressure on, you've got to exert pressure in areas that they don't like, which is traditionally the close set-piece play but then have the ability when you create opportunities, to turn that into points," he added.

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"Ireland did it really well and I think the Lions are going to struggle. If they win the first Test, they win the series. If they don't, I think it might be a tough old series for them."

Warren Gatland and Sam Warburton set to lead the Lions against the mighty All Blacks
Image: Sam Warburton looks set to lead the British and Irish Lions this summer

Gatland, Wales' head coach, led the Lions to a 2-1 victory over Australia on their last tour in 2013.

"The All Blacks are not only a physical contest, it is a big mental contest," warned Jones, who orchestrated five wins over New Zealand when he was Australia coach.

"You have to be very disciplined in the way you play, you've got to chip away at them."

The Lions Tour live only on Sky Sports
The Lions Tour live only on Sky Sports

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