English rugby chief’s vote of confidence in Johnson
Rugby Union
English rugby chief Martyn Thomas gave team manager Martin Johnson a vote of confidence yesterday and insisted he had not been given a deadline to indicate if he wants to continue in the job.
Thomas, the acting chief executive of the strife-torn RFU, told the BBC no pressure had been put on Johnson to decide whether or not he wishes to be considered for reappointment when his contract ends in December.
Thomas was widely quoted earlier this month saying Johnson had been given “7 to 14 days” to make up his mind following England’s dismal World Cup campaign, which was marked by off-the-field controversies.
However, Thomas said yesterday his earlier comments had been misconstrued.
“He was never ever set a deadline, it was merely an informal situation, as and when you’ve made a decision as to whether you wish to carry on or not, let us know,” Thomas said.
“I’ve not actually spoken to him since he left New Zealand but I have left him a message on his phone.
“He’s had a torrid World Cup, a lot of it not of his making.
“I’ve always expressed confidence in Martin. I believed he was the right appointment. I accept the fact he didn’t have the coaching experience, but it was about getting a man in who could manage the process, who understood the process and would appoint the right coaches.”
Thomas said he was waiting for the results of a review into England World Cup failure which was being led by former England international Fran Cotton.