England fans feeling clear about Steve Borthwick's future following Italy clash

England have suffered defeat to Italy as they lost 23-18 in Rome, their first-ever defeat to the Azzurri, leaving them fifth in the Six Nations.

Steve Borthwick’s job is now in serious doubt regarding this result as they lost in the Eternal City making it three losses on the bounce, but what was more worrying was the performance of the English side.

Italy dug in and worked hard, and while they did not play the most scintillating rugby, they did earn the victory, and that is all that will matter to Gonzalo Quesada and his side.

This Azzurri side will be remembered fondly forever as the first side to have ever beaten the English, while Steve Borthwick and his side will be infamous in England for this performance and result until the end of time.

The RFU now have a serious question to answer: do they stick with Borthwick for the World Cup?

Fans have made their feelings known about this result and performance by the English on social media, and it is not a pretty sight to view.

Fans took to social media to give their views, as one said: “I’ve been to World Cups & followed you home and away, but until you replace Borthwick, I will not be spending anymore of my money. Really can’t stand the boring negative rugby any longer, no matter what the result is today or going forward.”

Another added: “This is dire. Where is the response we were promised? Silly errors are just constantly killing our attack. The whole team looks so disjointed. This might define Borthwick's England career because this is so uninspiring.”

One fan simply said: “Borthwick Out.”

ENGLAND RUGBY, SACK BORTHWICK NOW!!!!!

— ChrisCFC20 (@ChrisCFC1990) March 7, 2026

Former England international Austin Healey let his feelings be known on Borthwick’s side without naming the head coach as the problem, but it was heavily implied by the pundit.

He said: “More concerned now with our style of play, pace too slow and kicking too much.”

The decision to replace Borthwick as head coach must be taken immediately after the France game, which coincides with the conclusion of this year’s Six Nations.

Fans will not want a repeat of the 2015 World Cup, which saw them eliminated in the pool stage, when they head to Australia and aim to lift the trophy for the second time.

Borthwick does not seem to inspire much hope in the fanbase as they edge towards the World Cup next year; however, if he were to leave his role as head coach, the question must be asked, who will replace him?