Gregor Townsend insists he still has the appetite to remain Scotland head coach, despite mounting pressure on his position after their 18-15 loss against Italy.
Scotland’s Six Nations campaign began with a damaging 18-15 defeat to Italy in Rome on Saturday, a result that has effectively ended their title hopes after just one match. The loss followed a worrying run of form, with Townsend’s side winning only three of their last eight Tests, none of them against Tier One opposition.
Scrutiny of Townsend’s tenure has been intensifying for some time and has only sharpened in the aftermath of the defeat in Rome.
Although he signed a contract extension with the Scottish Rugby Union in September that runs until the end of the World Cup, speculation around his future has persisted.
Townsend has repeatedly been linked with a director of rugby role at Newcastle Red Bulls, with reports earlier this week suggesting he has already agreed to take up the position after the tournament in Australia.
At the same time, Scotland’s underwhelming Six Nations performances in recent years have led to growing calls from sections of the fanbase for change.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Townsend insisted that his full focus is on Scotland’s Calcutta Cup clash with England next weekend.
“Absolutely,” he said when asked if he has the appetite to coach Scotland. “We’ve got a game in seven days’ time, we’ve got a game to review and a selection to put together. How we improve today is all we’re thinking about as a coaching group.
“It’s very tough when you lose, but when you’ve got a game around the corner, your focus has to be on that. How do we make sure we put on a training session and a team that goes out there and gives our supporters a victory? That’s all we’re motivated by.
“We didn’t get it today, but the focus will be quickly on England.”
Asked specifically if he will be in post for the Murrayfield Test, Townsend added: “Well, I want to be, that’s my job. That’s what I’m focused on.”
