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Cape Town - John Mitchell believes he can help turn England into the world’s best team within a year.
Mitchell was last week confirmed as England’s new defence coach, signing a one-year deal until after the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
In an interview with English publication The Mirror, Mitchell said he was confident about World Rugby's current fourth-ranked team’s chances at next year’s tournament in Japan.
“I really believe we can get better and be the best within a year’s time - and I believe I can play a part in that,” Mitchell said.
Mitchell’s latest venture sees him leave the Bulls after only one season in charge - his contract was due to only expire at the end of October 2019.
There were talks that Mitchell could take over as England head coach from Eddie Jones after the World Cup but the New Zealander insisted that it was not the case.
“People will speculate but the No 1 position is not even on my mind,” he said.
“I have a job to do, I am on a one-year contract and I will fulfil that the best I can.
“Whatever happens after that, I will decide, but there is certainly no talk or ambition around that situation.”
Mitchell had a torrid first Super Rugby season in charge of the Bulls, winning just six of 16 games to finish bottom on the South African Conference.
