Sean Fitzpatrick believes Martin Johnson's record as a World Cup winner is protecting him from heavier criticism following the record defeat by South Africa.

Former All Blacks skipper Fitzpatrick, who is backing his country to defeat England and complete a grand slam over the Home Nations on Saturday, said: "If it wasn't Martin Johnson in charge there would be more knives out and calls for his head.

"I think English rugby has come to the realisation that quality international rugby coaches are few and far between. They will stick with Martin, and I am sure they have a plan through to the 2011 World Cup.

"If anyone was going to survive what English rugby is going through it would be Martin Johnson. He is held in a special place."

Fitzpatrick, who will be a studio analyst during coverage of Saturday's game on Sky Sports 2, added: "It depends on how England start, but I would expect a New Zealand victory by 10 to 15 points."

Meanwhile, the International Rugby Board have agreed to reduce the minimum guarantee for staging future World Cups.

Bernard Lapasset, the IRB chairman, said: "The IRB Council have agreed that the minimum tournament fee for 2015 be reduced from £100million to £80m and 2019 be reduced from £120m to £96m."