England’s senior players have rallied around Steve Borthwick in response to claims that his squad sought clear-the-air talks during the summer in protest about a toxic environment.

Borthwick, England’s head coach for the past four years, rejects the accusations made in a newspaper article highlighting unrest at his management style that came to a head during the build-up to the final match of the July tour against Argentina.

It is alleged that players objected to his treatment of them, that he was involved in a training ground bust-up with prop Ellis Genge and that they wanted Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney to hear their grievances.

A meeting did take place, but it was held virtually after the tour.

Steve Borthwick (right) has been backed by England vice captain Jamie George (Joe Giddens/PA) (PA Archive)

Borthwick said: “I don’t recognise it as being an accurate reflection of the environment.

“I don’t recognise it as being an accurate reflection of relationships between me and the…