# Alex Coles downplays England team-mate tensions post-East Midlands derby

> England lock Alex Coles says no lingering tensions with teammates after East Midlands derby clash.
- Title: Alex Coles downplays England team-mate tensions post-East…
- Summary: England lock Alex Coles says no lingering tensions with teammates after East Midlands derby clash. Alex Coles insists England team-mates have no lingering…
- Keywords: alex coles, england, east midlands derby, northampton saints, leicester tigers, steve borthwick, rugby, autumn internationals, The Rugby Paper
- Source: The Rugby Paper — https://therugbypaper.co.uk/latest-news/496377/were-all-friends-now-says-coles
- Author: Adam Hathaway
- Published: 2026-11-01T04:03:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: alex coles, england, east midlands derby, northampton saints, leicester tigers, steve borthwick, rugby, autumn internationals, sports
## East Midlands derby fracas
Alex Coles played in the East Midlands derby clash against Leicester Tigers.
## Coles downplays tensions
Coles insists there are no lingering tensions with England team-mates after the fracas.
## England camp preparation
Players were in England camp in Bagshot for a three-day camp ahead of autumn Tests.
## Coles' role in fracas
Coles was at the middle of the fracas which ignited just before half-time in their 28-7 defeat.
## Key takeaway

Alex Coles insists England team-mates have no lingering tensions after East Midlands derby fracas.