England turn to Johnson

Martin Johnson has been backed to bring "a new and fresh approach" in the high-profile role of England team manager.

English rugby's worst-kept secret finally became public knowledge on Wednesday after the Rugby Football Union management board confirmed his appointment.

RFU elite rugby director Rob Andrew said: "I am delighted Martin is joining the England structure as team manager. He will bring a new and fresh approach to team development and preparation in his own inimitable style."

And RFU chief executive Francis Baron added: "Martin's appointment will greatly strengthen the England team management and coaching structure.

"Martin has the freedom and the budget to recruit additional coaching resource, and make other changes to the England set-up to build a team that will consistently challenge for the major international tournaments."

Johnson, who has agreed a three-and-a-half year deal thought to be worth around £900,000, will officially take up his post on July 1.

Johnson will not to travel to New Zealand for England's two Tests against the All Blacks in June because his wife Kay will be in the latter stages of pregnancy. Andrew is to carry out team manager duties for that trip, plus England's June 1 clash with the Barbarians at Twickenham.

But while existing England coaches John Wells (forwards) and Mike Ford (defence) remain in their posts, Brian Ashton's 22-Test reign is over.

Ashton, the head coach who led England to a World Cup final and second-place RBS 6 Nations finish, has lost his job in the wake of Johnson's arrival.

Ashton is likely to offer short shrift to the RFU's token gesture of effectively offering him his old job back - that of national academy coach.