Eddie Jones has apologised for his expletive-laden outburst during England's victory over Argentina and has accepted responsibility for the poor performance.
At one point during the second half at Twickenham on Saturday a television camera in front of the coach's box showed Jones slam down his notebook and mouth “F***, how f****** stupid are we?"
“I'd like to apologise for swearing in public. It's not acceptable so I apologise for that and I'll find a different way to express my frustration in the future,” said Jones.
"They're probably the form team in the world at the moment."
Q&A with Eddie ahead of England v Australia: https://t.co/oXs2w2RkPt pic.twitter.com/rTFIOvea5h— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) November 13, 2017
An ugly 21-8 triumph over the Pumas recorded a 20th victory in 21 Tests under Jones but it was among the worst displays of his tenure and the Australian insists he was at fault.
“I thought our effort and application were first class. Argentina are a difficult team, but I obviously didn't coach the team well enough,” Jones said.
“It's my fault the team didn't play well so I take full responsibility for that. I just didn't coach them well enough.”
It’s time to vote for your #IBMTryTracker Skill of the Week…
Cast your vote below pic.twitter.com/ixyfOyoaWt— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) November 13, 2017
Full-back Mike Brown is undergoing the return to play protocols for concussion after landing heavily on his head and shoulders and could yet face Australia on Saturday.
Brown departed in the 22nd minute after being tackled by opposite number Joaquin Tuculet while attempting to catch a high ball, resulting in a yellow card for the Pumas full-back.
Two years ago Brown was forced to spend an extended spell on the sidelines after being knocked out against Italy.
LAST LOOK
Highlights from England's 21-8 victory against Argentina #ENGvARG pic.twitter.com/JapAaQx0Hp— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) November 12, 2017
"Mike is doing really well. He did some bike today (Monday). There are set protocols on return to play and he's progressing pretty well. I'd think that at this stage he's still in contention," Jones said.
"The medical staff are very in tune with the players' welfare. That's at an absolute premium and that's the first thing we take into consideration."
Anthony Watson is viewed as Brown's successor at full-back and he moved from wing to deputise when the injury struck, acquitting himself well in the position he fills for Bath.
Mako has his say ????
"Pressure will be ramped up this week, we as players need to put pressure on ourselves."
More https://t.co/o73qXKGXxM pic.twitter.com/HQTeQEPDf1— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) November 12, 2017
"Anthony went very well. He hadn't trained there, so it was a really good exercise," said Jones, who revealed that Jonny May has resumed full training after recovering from a hamstring injury.
In a departure from his previous approach to the build-up to Tests against Australia, Jones has opted against mind games in favour of praising Michael Cheika's men.
???? SQUAD UPDATE
Eddie Jones calls up 35 players ahead of Saturday's Test against Australia.
More https://t.co/m0u9HuELPn pic.twitter.com/kgKIubo0tq— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) November 12, 2017
"Australia were beaten by 50 points in the first Bledisloe Cup game and the second one they won. They've really turned it around through some very good coaching," Jones said.
"Their selection has been good, their defence is very good, their set piece is strong.
"They're playing some good rugby and are probably the form team in the world at the moment."