Eddie Jones: England head coach job moves closer for Australian

Eddie Jones was appointed as Stormers head coach in September

Eddie Jones has moved closer to becoming England's first foreign head coach after talks with Rugby Football Union chief executive Ian Ritchie.

The Australian, 55, is understood to be keen on the role, but needs to secure his release from his job as coach of South African franchise the Stormers.

A senior Stormers source told the BBC this week that Jones had signed a "long-term contract" in Cape Town.

South African Jake White is also been under consideration by the RFU.

However, it is believed White - a World Cup winner with the Springboks in 2007 - is not at the top of the organisation's wish-list to succeed Stuart Lancaster, wholeft the job after England's failed 2015 World Cup campaign.

Jones was only appointed as the new Stormers head coach in September after leading Japan to the World Cup in England, during which they recorded a famous victory over South Africa in the pool stage.

He has had previous experience in charge of Australia and Japan, and fits Ritchie's desire to appoint a man with "proven international experience".

Jones would be able to select his own coaching team, with the former England captain Steve Borthwick a leading contender for the role as forwards coach. The pair worked together at Saracens and with Japan at the recent World Cup.

As well as Jones and White, the Wales coach Warren Gatland has also been linked with the role, although the New Zealander insists he is committed to honouring his contract, which runs until 2019.

Who is Eddie Jones?

Eddie Jones was appointed Stormers head coach in September

Age: 55

Nationality: Australian

Current position: Head coach of South African Super Rugby side Stormers, who he joined after coaching Japan at the World Cup.

Credentials: Guided Japan to a stunning victory over South Africa in their opening 2015 World Cup match. Led Australia to the 2001 Tri-Nations title but was beaten by England in the 2003 World Cup final. Played an advisory role in South Africa's 2007 World Cup triumph.

What he said: Writing in the Daily Mail on 4 October, he said: "If England approached me, would I listen to them? It's not the sort of job I'll go out chasing, but I'd certainly chat to them if they thought I was the right man for the role."