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Ashton calls for Johnson patience

Monday 17th November 2008

Full backing: Ashton hails Johnson's knowledge

Brian Ashton has admitted he is confident new England Head Coach Martin Johnson will lead the country back to great things - if given time in the job.

The former national boss has lavished praise on Johnson's credentials following defeat to Australia at Twickenham last Saturday.

And the 62-year-old believes that with Test experience, this side can recapture the form that saw them lift the World Cup in 2003.

"If Martin is given the opportunity he will be very successful," Ashton said, speaking to The Sun.

"He has a great knowledge of the game and will impose his manner on the players. Over time, providing if he has the support, I am sure Martin will deliver a successful England side.

"By half-time on Saturday England had put themselves in a position where I thought they would move on and win the game. But the discipline in terms of giving away penalties was poor."

Next on the autumn schedule for Johnson are the Springboks, who have stuttered somewhat in their two opening tour wins against Wales and more recently Scotland.

However, Ashton knows from past experience how the world champions can suffocate a side and has issued a warning to England that they will need to seriously lift their game to secure victory.

"Next week will be very interesting. Although they are world champions, South Africa have so far looked the least strong of the three southern hemisphere teams touring," he continued.

"They will have a big game in them and it may well be at Twickenham. But I back England to bounce back."