Former Italy coach Nick Mallett has reportedly applied for the permanent head coach role at England, despite previously ruling himself out of the running.

The former Springboks coach was originally the favourite to land the job following Martin Johnson's decision to step down from the helm last year.

Despite being the frontrunner, the 55-year-old stated in November that he was not interested in making himself available for the position.

It is now understood that Mallett has in fact applied to the Rugby Football Union regarding the vacancy, according to the Daily Mail.

Interim England coach Stuart Lancaster recently revealed that he too has put himself forward for the long-term role.