Johnson - I lack experience

12 April 2012

Martin Johnson has rejected the clamour for his appointment as England manager by insisting his lack of experience rules him out of contention.

Prominent figures such as Sir Clive Woodward and Leicester chief executive Peter Wheeler have demanded Johnson's elevation to the England set-up.

"If I ever got involved as manager of England then I'd want to do it with a bit of experience behind me," he said. "This is not the right time for me. If Rob (Andrew) were to call me now then I'd tell him the same thing."

Director of elite rugby Rob Andrew is conducting his review into the World Cup, with the future of head coach Brian Ashton still uncertain.

Johnson is not under consideration in a coaching capacity but could fill the role of team manager if Andrew decided to create the position.

Installing such an inspiring figure to the national set-up - Johnson led England to World Cup glory in 2003 - would be universally welcomed.

Johnson added: "There's a perception that I'll turn up and everything will be all right.

"When things are going badly for England the coaches will not tell the players anything different to what I'd tell them.

"People are assuming I could walk back in - but it doesn't work like that. There's nothing to say that, because you've played at the top level you'll make a good coach or manager.

"I would never be arrogant enough to presume I could be a national team coach or manager without any experience."

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