RFU backs Rob Andrew and Martin Johnson to 2011 World Cup

Friday 26 March 2010
Published By: Amy Nicholson
International Rugby > England

The RFU has given the England management their backing through to the 2011 World Cup, despite calls from many critics for urgent changes to be made.

In a statement, the RFU said that director of elite rugby Andrew and head coach Johnson will both be given the chance to build a side for next year's World Cup.

Expectations will be high considering England have made the last two World Cup finals and rumours persist that Sir Clive Woodward, who led the team to glory in 2003, is waiting in the wings.

"The RFU management board discussed the ongoing media speculation about the England team management and our elite rugby department and were unanimous in the view that it is unwarranted and unsubstantiated," the statement said.

Johnson also defended the role played by forwards coach John Wells, stressing that he is the right man to take the team onwards and build momentum ahead of the World Cup.

Posted by Amy Nicholson