Martin Johnson today refused to get involved in a war of words with Sir Clive Woodward, who claimed England's new team manager is short of experience in the role.

Johnson was Woodward's captain when England won the World Cup in 2003, but his former boss cast doubt on the appointment.

Woodward, now director of elite performance at the British Olympic Association, said: "I think we would all be a lot more confident if he had spent three or four more years coaching somewhere, with a proven track record of being a chess player.

"He's a warrior, we're about to find out now can he play chess? By being a chess player I mean you have got to out-think your opposition." But Johnson said today: "Clive is entitled to have his say and all I will be doing is concentrating on the match.

"This has never been about one player or one manager. All the hype doesn't affect us."

Johnson is looking forward to beginning his reign against the Pacific Islanders tomorrow.

He said: "I am excited about the match. My biggest fear is that we don't do it well and every decision doesn't help the team. I have missed being involved at Test level, and it's something very powerful.

"I was surprised to be offered this job, but this is a fantastic opportunity I didn't think I would get. It's one of those big decisions in your life that you think you would regret if you let it go by."