'˜Scotland are favourites' is just mind games, says boss Cotter

Both coaches have installed their rival’s team as favourites for the Edinburgh showdown on Saturday week with Jones arguing the Scots’ performance at the World Cup identifies them as the form team in Europe.

The 55-year-old compared England’s dismal showing at the global showpiece, in which they failed to qualify for the knockout phase, to Scotland being denied a place in the semi-finals by an erroneous penalty decision.

“Remember that photo that was sent around during the World Cup? It was of an English gentleman trying to get out of the pool and he couldn’t do it,” Jones said.

“Well Scotland made it out of the pool and nearly got to the semi-final. The difference in performance at the World Cup was enormous.

“Both teams will have had two weeks to prepare so the advantage that Scotland has is massive, but they have to carry that pressure of favouritism which is something they probably aren’t used to.”

Jones is known for his willingness to probe for opposition weaknesses through mind games and Vern Cotter responded by expressing his surprise that the Australian has resorted to this measure.

“I don’t know how Eddie works that out. It’s just a psychological lever that he’s trying to use, to take the pressure off himself,” the Scotland head coach said.

“I gather that England are still ranked ahead of us by World Rugby. I didn’t think England would need that, I thought they would be comfortable with the favourites’ tag.

“As I say, those are things used generally to take you away from the game.”