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Rugby Union

Dallaglio's England days over

03/11/2007

Lawrence Dallaglio admits he is unlikely to play for England again following the Rugby Football Union's (RFU) reaction to his recent comments.

Dallaglio fiercely criticised the management of Brian Ashton during the World Cup in a book published last week.

The RFU said it was "disappointed" that senior players had talked publicly about private team meetings and Dallaglio fears that this will signal the end of his international career.

He told the Guardian: "I'm 35 and I'm pretty realistic. I may well have played my last game for England.

"If you read the comments of certain people they would appear to hope I have."

The Wasps forward said he was simply stating the truth from his point of view and that he had not written anything disparaging with malicious intent.

"Some people will see what I have done as a breach of trust and I accept the timing is not ideal," he admitted.

"I've always been a firm believer that if you've got strong feelings you should express them. I've spoken to Brian but I think what was said should stay between us."

Although Dallaglio doubts his views will be listened to by the RFU hierarchy, the forward believes his former Wasps coach Warren Gatland should be considered for the England job.

Gatland is currently coach of New Zealand provincial side Waikato and is rumoured to be a candidate for the vacant position of Wales coach.

Dallaglio said: "I'm sure [the RFU] will not be fazed by any comments myself, or anyone else, has made.

"My attitude would be to say 'let's forget about country or nationality' and go with the best for us."

Dallaglio is set to make his first appearance since the World Cup final for Wasps in their EDF Energy Cup match against Gloucester tomorrow.