England coach Richard Wigglesworth uncertain about Felix Jones' role in preparations for South Africa clash.

England's players and assistant coach Richard Wigglesworth have had no communication with Felix Jones ahead of Saturday's match against South Africa, despite his inside knowledge of the Springboks.

Jones resigned as defence coach in August, but last month, Steve Borthwick revealed that Jones is still being consulted for opposition analysis during the autumn series, amid uncertainty over when he will officially depart from his role.

A highly regarded coach in the game, Jones played a key role in helping South Africa win back-to-back World Cups before joining Borthwick’s staff 11 months ago.

His decision to step down without securing another job took the camp by surprise, prompting Joe El Abd to take over the defence duties on short notice while still managing French club Oyonnax.

England have already been defeated by New Zealand and Australia this autumn, and now must overcome South Africa to salvage their campaign, with Japan set to visit Twickenham the following week.

“We don’t have any contact with Felix. I’m not sure if the coaches do or not,” centre Henry Slade said.

“We’ve been working with Joe and our defensive leaders, trying to set the defence and the team up to defend as well as possible.”

Wigglesworth was promoted to the post of senior assistant coach before the Autumn Nations Series but Borthwick’s right-hand man said he did not know if Jones was supplying analysis packages.

When asked if Jones is still employed by England, Wigglesworth replied: “I wouldn’t be able to tell you. I’ve not spoken to him.

“I know he’s working for us – behind the scenes that is – but I haven’t spoken to him.”

England and South Africa both name their teams on Thursday with the Springboks expected to continue their policy of loading their bench with forwards to take full advantage of the depth of their pack resources.

For Sunday’s 32-15 victory over Scotland, they brought on seven pairs of fresh legs up front to reinforce their assault on Murrayfield in the second half. The downside to the tactic is that injury could leave them exposed in the backs.

“It’s really impressive to watch – I really enjoy that someone is pushing the envelope. I always enjoy something that’s different, so full credit to them,” Wigglesworth said.

“They’ve got personnel they’re really happy to do it with and the risks involved they fully accept and get behind. They have made it work for them.”

England are playing to avoid a fifth successive defeat that threatens to continue an autumn of discontent.

“We know what international sport is. It’s a results business. There’s loads of people watching, loads of people really care,” Wigglesworth said.

“No one wants to win more than us. We want to send everyone home happy and we want everyone at home watching to love it, to be excited about what we’re doing, but ultimately watch England in.”