Johnson wary of transition trouble

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Several of the stars that swept England to a second successive World Cup final are nearing the end of their international careers. The Rugby Football Union's director of elite rugby, Rob Andrew, will complete his review of the tournament next month and will make a recommendation on the make-up of the coaching team.

"It's a very important time right now and England must make the correct choice. The guy in charge must manage the transition of the team," said Johnson.

Current head coach Brian Ashton is expected to keep his job but Andrew may opt to appoint a team manager to assist him - or even step into the breach himself.

Whatever Andrew decides, World Cup-winner Johnson insists there is no margin for error as England seek to bed some exciting young talent into the squad.

"A lot of the guys who played in the final will not be around in 18 months' time. England must stay successful, keep the team confident and manage the young guys coming in because there's talent there.

"It's difficult for a talented youngster to come into a team that's unsuccessful.

"It's much easier if there's a little bit of experience around you, a bit of know-how and a winning team."

Johnson is viewed as the leading candidate for the team manager's role if it is created, but the 37-year-old claims his lack of experience rules him out of contention.

"If I ever got involved as manager of England then I'd want to do it with a bit of experience behind me," he said. "This is not the right time for me. If Rob were to call me now then I'd tell him the same thing."