 Mallett led South Africa to 17 consecutive Test victories |
Nick Mallett is not interested in becoming England head coach, according to his boss at Western Province. Sir Clive Woodward has said Mallett "stands way ahead" of all other candidates and the South African is reported to be top choice for the RFU.
But Western Province managing director Rob Wagner told BBC Radio Five Live: "I met with Nick yesterday and he told me he had no interest in the England job.
"We're in negotiations to extend his contract for a further year."
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Mallett, who was born in England, became Western Province's director of rugby last year and is under contract with them until the end of 2007.
He had previously led South Africa to a world record-equalling 17 consecutive Test victories and taken Stade Francais to the Heineken Cup final.
RFU elite director of rugby Rob Andrew has said he expects to have a new head coach in place before the start of the Six Nations.
The Sun newspaper reported that Mallett was Andrew's first choice on Thursday.
Andrew will tell the RFU management board his recommendation for head coach on 20 December.
Management board chairman Martyn Thomas told BBC Sport: "Elite rugby in England is under the control of Rob Andrew, lock, stock and barrel.
"He will report direct to the management board and, although I can't pre-empt a decision, I would be very surprised if his recommendations were not approved."