England move forward with Smith - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

England move forward with Smith

England have confirmed the appointment of Brian Smith as their attack coach with immediate effect.

Smith joins the management team led by Martin Johnson after the Rugby Football Union were able to negotiate his release from London Irish.

The Exiles director of rugby, born in Australia, will work alongside defensive mastermind Mike Ford and forwards coach John Wells.

Johnson said: "The appointment of Brian is great news for England as we look forward to the increased time we have with the players under the new agreement with Premier Rugby.

"Brian is a top attack coach and I'm sure he will be a real asset to us. His appointment finalises the senior coaching team for next season."

Smith has been given the task of igniting England's pedestrian back play, which has proved woefully ineffective since 2003.

The recent tour to New Zealand once again exposed the shortcomings behind the scrum where the lack of imagination and creativity has made the team frustratingly one-dimensional.

Smith said: "The opportunity to coach Test rugby comes along rarely in one's career so I'm looking forward to my new position with England.

"It's an exciting time to be involved. I would like to thank London Irish for the opportunity the club has given me.

"I've enjoyed working with the playing and coaching staff and would like to thank all at the club for all the encouragement I've received."

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