FORMER England head coach Brian Ashton is working with Oxford University in a consultancy role as they prepare for the Varsity Match.

o Ashton, who was controversially sacked after leading England to second place in the World Cup and the Six Nations, will work with the students as they target their first Twickenham victory since 2004.

Oxford University director of rugby Steve Hill said: "I've known Brian for 20 years and he's a really excellent coach.

"I simply called him up and asked if he would be interested, which he was.

"He is with us this week and we plan to use him a fair bit before the Varsity Match.

"Brian is basically working for himself, although he is still doing a bit of work for the RFU.

"We are very pleased to have him on board."

Hill has also added London Irish scrummaging coach Neal Hatley to his support team.

"This year, the priority and focus of the club will be on the first team," added Hill "We've been very successful as a club, but it's now been too long since we won the big one."