Eddie Jones has been combining his job as England head coach with a consultancy role as a performance adviser to a leading team in the Top League in Japan, The Times has learnt.

Though the RFU has never publicly acknowledged the connection, Jones has been performing this role for Suntory Sungoliath for the three and a half years that he has been with England. Suntory are looking to formalise the position after this year’s World Cup, which finishes in November, when they hope to be able to give Jones a title such as director of rugby.

The 59-year-old is contracted to stay with England until 2021 and is expected to continue with both roles. It is understood that the RFU is comfortable with this arrangement