Prem clubs block Morrow's England-Sarries job-share

Premiership clubs have blocked Saracens' head of performance Phil Morrow from joining the England set-up following a series of meetings this week.

England boss Steve Borthwick had targeted the highly-rated Morrow to replace Aled Walters as head of strength and conditioning.

But with Morrow tied down on a long-term contract, Saracens would only let him join England in an unprecedented job-sharing capacity.

The Premiership owners, however, have voted 7-3 against the move because of a perceived conflict of interest.

As part of the latest Professional Game Agreement, the England strength and conditioning department would have a key role in overseeing the individual development programmes of the country's leading players, as the Rugby Football Union seeks more effective collaboration with the Premiership clubs.

Sarries boss Mark McCall had urged the clubs to approve Morrow's dual role, telling the BBC he hoped all parties "can come to an arrangement that suits everybody".

"I can understand why he is in demand because he is outstanding in his field. Hopefully small-mindedness doesn't get in the way of a good decision," added McCall.

However, Harlequins scrum-half Danny Care - who retired from international duty earlier in the year after winning 101 caps - has been among those to question how manageable a job-sharing position would be, considering Morrow would have access to key medical information regarding England players when on Saracens duty.

"I can understand why there will be a hesitation from other Premiership clubs," Care told the Rugby Union Weekly podcast.

"I would say there is a conflict of interest - and I am not in any way questioning Phil Morrow's integrity.

"I have no doubt Phil Morrow would do an unbelievable job in that role, but it doesn't seem right to me."

Borthwick has spent the last month rebuilding his backroom staff after the departures of Walters and fitness coach Tom Tombleson, as well as the surprise resignation of defence coach Felix Jones.

England start their new campaign against New Zealand at Twickenham on Saturday November 2.