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Rugby Union

Ashton to remain England coach

19/12/2007

Brian Ashton will retain his job as England head coach after being offered a new contract, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) has confirmed.

Ashton, who led England to the final of the Rugby World Cup earlier this year, had found his future cast into doubt after several players openly criticised his coaching and management methods.

However the RFU has stood by its man and reappointed the former Bath coach on the recommendation of elite rugby director Rob Andrew.

Andrew conducted a comprehensive review of the recent tournament, which proved to be a rollercoaster for England when they were defeated 36-0 by South Africa in the pool stages but went on to beat Australia and hosts France to reach the showpiece event.

Ashton has found support from many individuals within the game, including England squad member and talisman Jonny Wilkinson and it is believed Andrew questioned every member of the World Cup squad before reaching a decision on the coach's future.

Andrew confirmed that Ashton, along with his existing coaching team of John Wells and Mike Ford, would remain in place for the foreseeable future.

"It's been a thorough review and a process that everyone from the coaches to the players and the management all supported," Andrew explained.

"I'm delighted that Brian and his coaching team will remain with England and, like them, I'm looking forward to what will be a challenging international year in 2008."