England legend Lawrence Dallaglio has urged Steve Borthwick to make a surprise addition to his coaching setup ahead of next Sunday's clash with Australia.

The 2003 World Cup winner believes England need outside help to solve a problem that has plagued them throughout 2026.

Borthwick's side have conceded 98 penalties in just eight Tests this year.

They have also received 14 yellow cards and one red.

And Dallaglio believes former World Cup final referee Wayne Barnes could be the man to turn things around.

Dallaglio wants England to break the bank

Writing in The Sunday Times, Dallaglio urged the RFU to recruit Barnes, who retired from refereeing after the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

He said: "England really ought to break the bank to get in Wayne Barnes, who was for a long time the best referee in the world."

South Africa already have former referee Jaco Peyper working alongside Rassie Erasmus.

Wales have also appointed Ben Whitehouse to Steve Tandy's coaching team.

Dallaglio believes England should follow their lead.

He warned that England cannot keep giving away penalties and yellow cards if they want to compete with the world's best.

Borthwick admits England must change

Borthwick has also admitted England are struggling to adapt to international refereeing.

Speaking ahead of the Nations Championship, he said: "The best players are smart and the best players adjust."

He added: "What we've got to be is the quickest to adjust."

England conceded 15 penalties and received four yellow cards during July's narrow 31-24 victory over Argentina.

With Australia, Japan and New Zealand all visiting Twickenham this month, Borthwick cannot afford a repeat.

Pick your England XV to face Australia

Steve Borthwick faces some huge selection decisions ahead of Sunday's clash with the Wallabies.

But who would make your starting XV?

Use our interactive England selector below to pick your strongest team and see how your choices compare with other supporters.