Ashton keeps faith with his old brigade

The 61-year-old England head coach, re-appointed last week, said that many of the men who played in the World Cup final two months ago still have much to offer, while he is wary of exposing too many unproven players to the spotlight of Test rugby.

While young Wasps fly-half Danny Cipriani has impressed with his precocious displays, Ashton spoke in support of Jonny Wilkinson and even insisted that Lawrence Dallaglio, an outspoken critic of the coach after the World Cup, could have an international future.

"Although current form will be extremely important, there's little doubt that there are a number of 31 and 32-year-olds who are still the best in their positions in the country," said Ashton, who names a Six Nations squad of 32 players on January 9.

"To dispense with them now and turn to youth would be a big mistake."

Asked whether that included 35-year-old Dallaglio, Ashton responded: "I've never been a vindictive man. If I think Dallaglio's the best person for the job, then he'll be selected.

"I'm delighted about the wealth of young talent coming through.

"There are a number of players capable at playing in the centres and back three, especially at 10."

Yet it seems the likes of Cipriani and Ryan Lamb may have to wait for their turn at fly-half because Ashton retains his faith in Wilkinson, who is still only 28.

"If you speak to other England players, you'll find out how very positive they are about having Jonny in the team," he said.