• Mallett: I’m not going to consider it. I’m enjoying my current job • RFU denies approach for coach who was on shortlist in 2011

This article is more than 4 years old

This article is more than 4 years old

The former South Africa and Italy coach Nick Mallett has turned down an approach from England to become their next coach, according to reports in his homeland.

Mallett, who was on the RFU’s shortlist when Stuart Lancaster was appointed in 2011, has not coached in international rugby since leaving the Italy post following the 2011 World Cup but has been working as a television pundit.

Stuart Lancaster unaware of any approach from the RFU to Nick Mallett Read more

Speaking at a breakfast for Super Rugby side the Blue Bulls on Thursday, he confirmed that he had received a call from England earlier this week.

“I’m not going to consider it. I was keen for the challenge in 2011, but not any more. I’m enjoying my current job,” Mallett was quoted as saying by the Sport24 website.

However, the RFU has denied any approach, saying: “There is a clear process at the conclusion of England’s tournament, which starts with the review. No pre-judgments have been made nor anyone contacted.”

Lancaster, who is preparing to lead England into Saturday’s Rugby World Cup match against Uruguay on Saturday, reacted with surprise to suggestions Mallett had been approached.

“I didn’t know that,” he said. “I guess that’s the nature of the situation we are in.”

He added: “For me it’s about getting on with the day job and I’ve got enough to be thinking about, to be honest.”