Brian Ashton, the former England head coach, claims the “complete mess” at the RFU is likely to have played a key role in both Martin Johnson’s decision to resign as England manager and Nick Mallett’s decision to rule himself out of contention to be his successor. The Daily Telegraph's Gavin Mairs reports.
"Ashton, whose sacking in 2008 paved the way for Johnson’s appointment, has also questioned the commitment of some of the England players, claiming they appeared to be were more interested in the financial reward than giving their all for their country.
“There seems to be a sea change in the players’ approach, and that they are more concerned about the financial rewards and commercial opportunities,” Ashton said.
“It used to be all about getting to wear the white shirt with the red rose and that was enough. I accept that things change — otherwise it would still be an amateur game — but I just wonder now whether that is their main focus.”
"Johnson resigned on Wednesday following England’s disappointing World Cup campaign, which was marred by off-field controversies and culminated in a quarter-final defeat by France.
"Ashton, who controversially lost his job despite taking England to the World Cup final in 2007, claimed Mallett would have been the perfect candidate to replace Johnson but claimed the turmoil at Twickenham had put off the former South Africa and Italy coach."
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