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Rugby Union

Catt backtracks over Ashton

31/10/2007

One of the men at the centre of the controversy surrounding the public criticism of Brian Ashton has spoken out in support of the coach.

Veteran inside centre Mike Catt, who delivered a damning indictment of the former Bath man's leadership qualities and tactical nous during the Rugby World Cup, says he would be in full support of a new contract for his former coach.

Catt has stood by his original criticism, saying he would "not apologise" for saying "what I thoroughly believe".

But he tempered his earlier comments by explaining his reservations about Ashton are centred on the 61-year-old's ability to deal with all the facets of being an England coach - from the internal politics and dealing with the media to coaching the team's defence.

"He's a fantastic coach, he's got a hell of a lot of knowledge on the attacking side of things," Catt told BBC Radio Four.

"I think if they get the management around him, the coaches around him, that can help him out. He's definitely one for the job."

Catt, 36, announced his retirement following the 15-6 defeat to South Africa in the World Cup final earlier this month.

However he stirred up controversy, along with fellow veteran team-mate Lawrence Dallaglio, when comments used to promote autobiographies of the two players were seen to question Ashton's abilities to coach England in the future.

Ashton's current contract with the Rugby Football Union runs until December 31st and an announcement over his future is expected to be made soon.