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Rugby Union

Ashton 'set to stay'

18/12/2007

England rugby coach Brian Ashton will be allowed to stay on with the national side, according to reports in Tuesday's Evening Standard.

The newspaper claims that the RFU's elite rugby director Rob Andrew's report into England's surprise run to the World Cup final earlier this year will conclude that the former Bath man should remain in place.

His position had been thrown into doubt by claims from the veteran playing pair of Mike Catt and Lawrence Dallaglio that the squad succeeded in spite, rather than because, of Ashton's involvement.

Andrew's report has surveyed the views of players, England management staff and club coaches and is set to be presented to his employers on Wednesday.

"This is obviously a significant meeting - because we get Rob Andrew's report on the World Cup and his thoughts as to what we should be doing, going forward," admitted RFU chairman Martyn Thomas.

Ashton's contract expires at the end of this year and, while he is keen to commit to the cause up to the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand, the RFU are reluctant to offer such a long-term contract.

Previous coach Andy Robinson is thought to have picked up a £500,000 payday after his deal was terminated early.

A second issue is Ashton's desire to work alongside a team manager who would deal with the media and coordinate backroom staff and allow him to concentrate on preparing the team.

It is thought that Andrew himself may well step into such a position should it be created.