Jeremy Guscott: Martin Johnson has work to do

Tuesday 2 March 2010
Published By: David Rawlings
Six Nations > England

Martin Johnson has serious work to do if he is to silence the naysayers and show that he has what it takes to manage a side on the international stage, according to Jeremy Guscott.

Writing for the BBC, Guscott pointed out that Martin Johnson came into the job with a distinct lack of experience in coaching of any kind and so far the sides he has chosen have reflected this.

"That said, I would like to think he is learning on the job. However we are not seeing a great deal of improvement from the team he controls and leads," he said.

Against Ireland, England had possession in spades but failed to capitalise and Guscott signalled out the performances of Irish forwards John Wells, Brian Smith and Mike Ford as ones which Johnson could learn from.

"The England forwards lacked any real aggression and have consistently failed to produce quick ball from the breakdown, " he added.

Likewise, the backs were very lively against the Irish but again there was a distinct lack of flair and ambition and occasions were few and far between when England seemed a real threat to the opposition's try line.

Jonny Wilkinson was one player who came under fire after Saturday's game and although Guscott defended the England number ten, he did point out that more communication with team mates would mean more chasers at the high kick and an increased likelihood of forcing a mistake from the opposition.

"If he is calling the moves he isn't calling enough. England only tried one strike move, which did work but ceased to do anymore with all the ball they won," he concluded.

Posted by David Rawlings