Martin Johnson Set to Take England Role
Martin Johnson is expected to be confirmed as England's general manager in time for their summer tour to New Zealand
The Rugby Football Union are believed to be on the verge of confirming that Martin Johnson will be appointed as general manager of the England team. Speculation has been mounting that Johnson would take on the job since the RFU's review of the Six Nations tournament last Tuesday.
Negotiations between Johnson and the RFU are believed to be fully underway, and it is expected he will start work in time for England's tour of New Zealand this June. Johnson, 38, famously led England to victory in the 2003 World Cup. Since retiring in 2005 he has restricted himself to media punditry and corporate work, despite heavy speculation that he would take up a role with England in 2007. Johnson repeatedly denied interest in taking up a role with England, saying that he lacked the necessary experience for the role.
The nature of his job description is not yet clear. He will be expected to work closely with Brian Ashton, who is expected to stay on in as national coach. Ashton though suggested last week that he would not want a new manager to become involved in coaching or selection, saying: "I don't want anyone who's going to interfere or get involved in the rugby side of things".
Negotiations between Johnson and the RFU are believed to be fully underway, and it is expected he will start work in time for England's tour of New Zealand this June. Johnson, 38, famously led England to victory in the 2003 World Cup. Since retiring in 2005 he has restricted himself to media punditry and corporate work, despite heavy speculation that he would take up a role with England in 2007. Johnson repeatedly denied interest in taking up a role with England, saying that he lacked the necessary experience for the role.
The nature of his job description is not yet clear. He will be expected to work closely with Brian Ashton, who is expected to stay on in as national coach. Ashton though suggested last week that he would not want a new manager to become involved in coaching or selection, saying: "I don't want anyone who's going to interfere or get involved in the rugby side of things".
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