Back in business.

Former Northampton Saints Director of Rugby Jim Mallinder has joined England Rugby as a pathway performance coach.

The 52-year-old began his coaching career at Sale Sharks in 2001, before taking up a role with the national academy at the Rugby Football Union. Mallinder also coached England Saxons between 2006-07.

In his time at Sale, he led the team to European silverware, and helped guide England U21s to the Six Nations title in 2006 before coaching Northampton Saints for 10 years. During that period he led Saints back into English rugby’s top flight, reached two European finals and won the Premiership title in 2013/14.

Leaving the RFU will be long-serving pathway coaches John Fletcher and Peter Walton.

The pair have been with the RFU for 10 years in a variety of senior pathway coaching roles, playing a crucial part in the development of many players at different levels of the game.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to join England Rugby and to work in the pathway helping guide the future stars of the game.” Mallinder said.

“It’s great to be returning to the RFU having held previous roles both in the pathway and with the Saxons.

“I’m a supporter of emerging talent and I’ve always tried to help develop young English players with their progression into senior rugby. I hope to continue that in my new role in the England pathway.”