From the Touchlines: Johnson's a must for England

England coach Brian Ashton looks certain to hold on to his job when the RFU make an official decision over the way forward for England rugby next week but, as to who comes with him, is very much open to discussion.

Ashton's preferred choice of Phil de Glanville as team manager looks unlikely to be agreed by the RFU, mainly due to his inexperience. Rob Andrew's first choice as manager is clearly Martin Johnson but, depending on what newspaper you read, that may or may not happen.

There's no denying the ex-England captain has been offered a role by Andrew but there are plenty of obstacles still to overcome: first off he must find a way of working with Ashton and he must also get approval from the RFU board. Another stumbling block is Johnson's apparent desire to have Austin Healey as backs coach (Ashton's domain) despite Healey's complete inexperience in the role, and there is some suggestion Johnson won't take the job without his ex-team-mate.

We'd give our full backing to getting Johnson on board. Both the fear and respect he'll instill in his players is second to none, he'll take no nonsense from either the coaches, players or the RFU for that matter. And if he can find a way to work with Ashton, England should get themselves back to the top of the tree in no time.

Do you think Martin Johnson's the right man to inspire England and should Brian Ashton stay on as national coach? We want to hear your views so post your comments below...

Comments

[Big Rog]

Of course Johnson is the man for the job. He has the unstinting respect of Clive Woodward and Lawrence Dallaglio and anyone who can impress both of those has got plenty going for him.
Players at international level are tough and need a leader that they can respect. They also need someone they can trust to fight their corner when the need arises. Johnson fits the description like a finely tailored glove. He is intelligent, knows his rugby and his playing days are recent enough for him to understand the professional players' attitude, and if any of the boys need sending to bed early with no supper, then Jonno is the man to do it!

[Bobby]

This is a useless blog but Orange have come up trumps on the others - check them out. Nice one Orange.