Johnson wins Dean backing

Harlequins director of rugby Dean Richards, the former England No 8 who has an in-depth knowledge of the leadership qualities necessary for this demanding role, believes Johnson could be the right man for the job, despite concerns about his lack of relevant experience.

"From a rugby point of view, his understanding of the game is extremely high, probably second to none," said Richards. "From a coaching perspective, I don't know how much coaching Martin has done, so there would be have to be a huge question mark there.

"In terms of managing sides — managing players and coaches — there would have to be questions about whether that is his forte, too. But his general character is such that I don't think that would be too much of an issue. His personal qualities could possibly over-ride that lack of experience."

As reported in Sportsmail yesterday, the RFU's director of elite rugby, Rob Andrew, is due to meet Johnson to ascertain whether the man who led his country to World Cup glory in 2003 would be prepared to offer his services in the quest to revive the Red Rose side.

He is regarded as someone with the presence and standing to make an impact as manager.

Given his record of domestic and European success during his time in charge of the Tigers, Richards has been regularly name-checked himself as a candidate to become the figurehead of the national team, only to emphasise his commitment to finishing his good work across the road from Twickenham at The Stoop.

Despite being unsure about exactly what job description Andrew has in mind, Richards claimed that the recruitment of Johnson could have head coach Brian Ashton and his assistants, John Wells and Mike Ford, looking anxiously over their shoulders.

Ashton met his boss yesterday having already made it clear that he wants the final say on rugby matters.

Yet, if Johnson is to be coaxed into the fold, he too would want that power. Something would have to give.

"One of the things you would have to have as manager is total control, which would then make Brian and the rest of the coaches particularly nervous about what would happen," said Richards.

"In that sort of job you need a broad understanding of the game — of exactly how to put a coaching team together, what to look for in coaches, what to look for in support staff, long-term planning, succession planning.

"All these bits and pieces are part of it and understanding of players is obviously taken as a given."

Switching on the sarcasm, Richards expressed disbelief that Ashton's position is seemingly under threat. "It's been a disastrous year for England, hasn't it? Coming second in the World Cup and second in the Six Nations," he said.

"They must be kicking themselves! Ten months ago they were going through a transitional period with so many inexperienced players.

"How ironic that everyone is now looking closely at Brian Ashton. I think he is doing a great job. Just look at the quality of players coming through.

"There has probably been a certain amount of discord within the camp. But when you go through a transitional period, there will be a certain amount of discord."

Asked whether he thought Ashton was the man to lead England to New Zealand in June, Richards added: "I don't know. He should be part of it. Whether he should be the guy leading it depends on whether there is a manager and who he is."