RBS 6 Nations

He will report to senior national fitness coach Calvin Morriss and England team manager Martin Johnson said: “This is a very important appointment for the squad.

“Calvin has done some excellent work with the players over the last three years and he and I agreed that further resource was needed to meet the growing demands of the professional game and to ensure that the players are in the best condition they can be for the test arena.

“Paul has a lot of experience in both rugby codes and his work at London Wasps over a five-year period was very impressive and an important factor in him being appointed.”

Stridgeon said: “This is a great opportunity for me and I didn’t hesitate to accept the offer. I’d like to thank Warrington Wolves for the support they have given me and I look forward to working with Calvin, Martin and the squad ahead of the Investec Challenge Test matches in November.”