Twickenham top brass today assembled for a meeting that could ultimately decide Brian Ashton’s future as England head coach.The Rugby Football Union management board gathered to hear Rob Andrew’s review of the 2008 RBS 6 Nations campaign, when England finished second – their best performance since 2003.
RFU elite rugby director Andrew will present a report that comes just three months after he completed his detailed assessment of the 2007 World Cup performances and recommended Ashton, plus his coaching lieutenants John Wells and Mike Ford, continue in their posts.
The giant figure of former England captain Martin Johnson, though, is now lurking.
Johnson, England’s victorious 2003 World Cup captain, met with Andrew last week to discuss a possible managerial role.
Ashton has long coveted a team manager to work within the England set-up, yet someone who would have administrative responsibilities, rather than a say in major issues like selection.
Ashton’s preferred choice is thought to be former Bath and England captain Phil de Glanville, but it is inconceivable Johnson would accept such a job without having key decision-making powers covering areas like team selection and appointing coaches.
Should Andrew recommend Johnson’s appointment – and it is approved by the management board – then Ashton could find himself behind the eight-ball.
While Andrew could recommend Ashton continues as head coach, Ashton is likely to find it impossible working as part of a structure that also includes Johnson.
Whatever unfolds at Twickenham today – there is no guarantee that decisions will be reached before the planned close around 5pm – Ashton has been treated shabbily.
Despite leading England to second-placed finishes in the World Cup and Six Nations, there is an RFU faction that do no want him in charge.