IAN Watson knows just how England’s Six Nations preparations are being helped by rugby league – with TWO of his big pals playing key roles alongside Eddie Jones.
And attack coach Martin Gleeson could have played a big part in Huddersfield’s Super League preparations after being urged to show his skills.
Going the other way, defence supremo Anthony Seibold had a huge say in the Giants boss’ own development.
Little wonder then that when England start their campaign against Scotland on Saturday, Watson will look on safe in the knowledge the 15-a-side players are being taught by the best.
Watson, who worked with Gleeson at Salford, said: “I was hoping Martin would come and do a bit with our centres as I know how good he is.
“And I know he’s been dotting around going to rugby league clubs because he loves being involved in our game and from what I’m told, England love him going to rugby league and other clubs to educate himself.
“That’s one of the biggest things you can do as a coach, keep learning and educating yourself.”
Watson and Seibold knew each other when the latter was Wales RL assistant coach as the former played.
That friendship spanned the globe, with Watson often heading to Brisbane, where his mate ended up coaching the NRL Broncos after starting at League One side South Wales Scorpions.
“I’ve exchanged things with Seibs over a few years,” Watson added. “Seibs has been really big for me in helping me out and giving me little bits of advice and information when I’ve asked for it.
“He invited me to the Broncos when I was out there with Great Britain, I spent time with them and to see their set up and how they trained was really good for me.
“Him and Gleese are two great blokes but also two really good coaches. I try to pick their brains and love trying to get educated by different types of people.
“You can learn from everybody.”
To some union fans, the thought of Jones’ side having such a strong rugby league influence – strength and conditioning coach Jon Clarke played for Warrington and Jones himself is a fan, will send a shiver down their spine.
Watson, though, is sad to see them doing their thing in the other code as he continued: “You’d love them to be in rugby league – they’re very good people but also very, very good coaches.
“Look at the careers they’ve had. Anthony’s been at the likes of Melbourne Storm and South Sydney, while Martin was one of the best centres in the world.
“There’s no better person to learn off than Gleese. The way he looks at the game is very, very detailed.”
