Johnson announces new England era
Tue, 01 Jul 2008 19:50
England team manager Martin Johnson believes his squad selections on Tuesday marked the start of an exciting new era for English rugby.
Johnson's first official duty was to select the new 32-man England Elite and Saxons squads, forming part of the new eight-year agreement between club and country.
"These are exciting times for England," said Johnson.
"I've spoken to all the Guinness Premiership directors of rugby and they are all excited too.
"The mood is one of optimism, we need a strong premiership to develop these players and we need for the England team to be playing well for that feel-good factor to return," he added.
Elite director Rob Andrew reiterated the positive outlook on rugby union in England.
"There's a lot of talent in English rugby at the moment," Andrew said.
"Some just need time to grow in at senior level. The England Saxons are unbeaten in over two years and the Under-20s reached the final of the Junior World Cup. I believe this England squad is one that can achieve on a world level."
After watching England twice at the hands of the All Blacks last month, Johnson is aware that he has some ground to make up if England are to be in with a chance of victory in November, when England will face three of the four teams ranked above them (Australia, South Africa and New Zealand).
"Ultimately I'm responsible for how England perform on the pitch. My goal is to win games of rugby.
"You're judged by results on the field, it's as simple as that," said Johnson.
"It was disappointing to see an England team getting well beaten but at the same time, some players stood up and competed pretty well at the top level. We found out something about everyone and that's been reflected in our selection.
"All the players on that tour now know what it is like to play international rugby at the toughest level, it's not going to get any more difficult that the second Test in New Zealand," Johnson added.
Johnson also hopes to have his coaching structure in place shortly, with his first priority being that of consistency.
"I hope we will be able to announce the name of the England attack coach as soon as possible to add to and complete the existing England senior coaching team.
"Moving forward, we need to bring some continuity to what we're doing as a side on the field. We need to decide who our players are who can handle the pressure and back them and be very clear on how we're going to play.
"It all comes down to performance; performances create wins. If we can get that right against the likes of Australia and South Africa, and if we are clear on players' roles and we get our team spirit working, then we're in with a chance," Johnson concluded.
