Ashton set for new RFU role
Fri, 18 Apr 2008 14:44
Brian Ashton will take up a new role with the National Academy, England Rugby Football Union (RFU) chief executive Francis Baron said on Friday.
Ashton lost his job as England's head coach following the appointment of Martin Johnson as team manager on Wednesday.
"Brian [Ashton] has confirmed to me his interest in taking up the new position that we have offered him," Baron told AFP.
"I will be sitting down with Brian next week to finalise the details of the new position so that Brian can start work in his new role.
"I very much believe Brian will remain a part of the team.
"He has a massive amount still to offer England rugby," added Baron.
Baron acknowledged the RFU had badly handled the transition between Ashton's tenure and the appointment of Johnson.
"We accept in some respects that the RFU could have handled the process better and lessons have been learned," he said.
Rob Andrew, the RFU's director of elite rugby, said Ashton had accepted the changes and had no intention of taking legal action against the governing body.
"It has been a very difficult situation for him and me personally and professionally, Andrew said.
"We are working closely with Brian and we spoke this morning.
"He is very keen to continue work with the RFU and over the next few days and weeks we hope to sort that out.
"He did also say, contrary to reports, he will not be suing the RFU over this issue," he added.
Andrew believes that in Johnson the RFU have found the right man to lead England back to the top of the world game.
Despite having no coaching experience Johnson was the captain of the World Cup-winning side of 2003.
Speaking at Johnson's official unveiling at Twickenham on Friday, Andrew added: "I am delighted Martin [Johnson] is sat next to us here."
"This is a long-term appointment for English rugby.
"It has not been the easiest couple of weeks but it is the start of a new era," added Andrew.
Johnson admitted he felt sorry for Ashton but was looking forward to his new challenge.
"It has been very difficult and I have not felt comfortable with it at times," said Johnson.
"I am sure it has been a lot worse for Brian and I have sympathy for him.
"I intend to speak to him," he added.
