In a truly remarkable turn of events it has been reported that Eddie Jones’ closest advisor, former journalist David Pembroke has been commenting under articles written by the Times.
First reported by The Telegraph’s Ben Coles, Pembroke has the head of the RFU, Bill Sweeney, of leaking information to a Times journalist.
Pembroke went on to label Sweeney as ‘Slippery Bill’, and accused him of giving information regarding the recent departure of England team doctor, Dr. Richard Tingay.
In a now deleted comment, Pembroke wrote There is only one question now and it is a question of governance. The chairman of the RFU must ask the CEO of the RFU did he or persons on his behalf leak the information published in the Times today about the hockey coach and the doctor? Simple. If answer [sic] is yes. “Slippery” Bill is a goner.”
In Coles’s article he reports that Pembroke has apologised to Sweeney with the Chief Executive having accepted the apology.
Who is David Pembroke?
Eddie Jones has previously referenced Pembroke on when speaking on the Times Sport podcast last year.
“I’ve got a guy called David Pembroke in Australia who cultivates the media strategy,” said Jones. “And I don’t follow it 100%, as some of the ideas are way out here, but he wants to control the environment.” Jones said.
This is yet another truly bizarre turn for Jones who has been accused of being difficult to work with which has been reflected in the significant turnover in staff he has overseen during his time in charge.
This incident will only have added fuel to the fire which is currently burning underneath the England camp being led by Jones.
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