England must improve their discipline if they are to fulfil their potential, according to Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney.
Sweeney said England are the second-best team in the world when they manage to keep all 15 players on the pitch. His assessment places a clear emphasis on the impact of disciplinary problems on the side’s performances.
The RFU chief executive’s comments come as England face criticism over their record of receiving cards. He has called for greater composure and discipline from a team he believes has the quality to compete at the highest level when it avoids losing players during matches.
Sweeney’s message is that England’s results and performances are being limited not by a lack of ability, but by their failure to maintain a full team on the field. Improving that aspect will be central to their progress, based on his assessment.
