Robinson: Ashton axe 'harsh'

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Ashton, who led England to the final of last year's World Cup before overseeing a disappointing RBS 6 Nations campaign this winter, stepped down after weeks of speculation last week when Martin Johnson was appointed team manager.

"It was harsh that he had to go," Robinson told The Times. "People forget that we got to a World Cup final under him, but the Six Nations was a bit rocky and at that level you need to get results."

Ashton is yet to decide whether to accept the role of head coach of the national academy which was offered to him by the Rugby Football Union when he refused to work under Johnson.

Some critics have suggested that Johnson will struggle in his new high-profile role given his lack of top-level coaching experience.

But Robinson - who tasted World Cup glory under then captain Johnson in 2003 - believes Johnson has the charisma and stature to be successful.

"Johnno is a no-nonsense guy who people will look up to - and not just because he is 6ft 7in," Robinson added.

"You need respect to be a successful coach and he gets an abundance of it.

"People say that he doesn't have the management skills, but if he can get the help around him, he will be a success. He's not doing this for money or prestige, only to win."