Michael Cheika joins England squad ahead of Samoa clash

Former Wallabies coach to assist Jones for Autumn Nations Series match

Cheika will provide support and advice to England coaching staff

Michael Cheika, the former Wallabies coach, has joined the England squad ahead of their Autumn Nations Series clash with Samoa on Saturday.

Cheika will provide support and advice to England's coaching staff, led by Eddie Jones, as they prepare for the match at Twickenham.

Cheika has a wealth of experience in international rugby, having coached Australia from 2014 to 2019. He led the Wallabies to the final of the 2015 Rugby World Cup, where they were defeated by New Zealand.

Cheika's appointment is a further sign of Jones's determination to improve England's performance after a disappointing Six Nations campaign.

England finished fifth in the Six Nations, their worst performance since 2018. They were also beaten by Scotland in the Calcutta Cup for the first time since 2008.

Jones has made a number of changes to his squad for the Autumn Nations Series, including recalling experienced players such as Owen Farrell, Maro Itoje and Jonny May.

Cheika's appointment is a further indication of Jones's willingness to seek external help in an attempt to improve England's performance.

It remains to be seen whether Cheika can help England to rediscover their form and challenge for major honours once again.