Rory Underwood backs Martin Johnson as England rugby boss

By Simon Hayes on May 8, 2008 8:59 AM |

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RORY UNDERWOOD is backing Martin Johnson to do the business as England team manager, but thinks people need to give him time.

Underwood, who won 85 caps between 1984 and 1996, believes Johnson, England’s world cup winning captain, has all the attributes for the job he inherited from Brian Ashton.

He said: “Martin’s got great personal qualities. He’ll bring clearer leadership and direction to the team. He’s not at the same coaching level as Brian Ashton but he has nous to pass on.

“He was astute and aware as a player and could communicate with the whole team, even though he was a forward, and that's something he still has.

“But people need to be realistic in their expectations. His appointment doesn’t mean England will win the Grand Slam next year. It’s going to take a while. England have taken a bit of a battering in recent years and the great team of 2003 has to be rebuilt.”

One issue Johnson will have to address is who to appoint as England captain and Underwood, who played most of his international rugby under Will Carling’s leadership, thinks he should go for the long-term strategy.

“The one who jumps out for me is Matt Stevens,” he said. “He’s young and would be a guaranteed starter, like Will Carling was, and the team could be built around him.

“I think there’s an opportunity to bring new people in. Stability is what’s needed.”

Underwood, who served in the RAF during his rugby career has no regrets about missing out on the riches enjoyed by current international stars.

He said: “I look back on my career with a smile on my face. I had a great time and I can’t believe how lucky I was. I wouldn’t change it at all.

“It would have been nice to have been playing full-time but I can’t complain. I won three Grand Slams with England and that was very special.”

His tally of 49 tries is still the English record, but which one is the most memorable for him?

“All 49 of them stand out for me,” he said. “They were all special.”

Underwood is taking part in the Microsoft UK Challenge,along with a number of Canary Wharf companies, between June 11 and 15.

simon.hayes@wharf.co.uk