Nick Mallett not ready to replace Martin Johnson as England Head Coach - Rugby News
Nick Mallett has cleared his stance over denying RFU's offer to replace the outgoing Martin Johnson for the coaching role. Mallett told the media on November 16 that he was approached by Rugby Football Union earlier this week and asked about his availability
but he denied joining the coaching staff and decided to remain with his current squad.
Mallett was seemd willing to take up the position a couple of weeks before but the day the seat was vacated by Martin Johnson he changed his mind.
Martin Johnson, the ex-captain and manager of England, was working with the side since 2009 and his current contract with RFU was expiring with the end of 2011. His future with the English side became ambiguous after the early exit of his team from Rugby
World Cup 2011, which was played in New Zealand. Johnson was asked by the union whether he wanted to renew his contract or not and he delayed it for unspoken reasons.
After the wait, Martin broke the news of his departure as manager of England rugby team on November 16 and let the doors open for new faces. RFU had already announced that it will decide the new man for this postion next year.
However, after Mallett has rejected the offer, the situation has become more interesting. Nick Mallett was a strong candidate for the coaching role of England due to his experience. He has worked with South Africa as head coach from 1997-2000 and currently
he is the head coach of Italy.
Talking about his latest denial, Mallett said that, “I would like to lay to rest the speculation linking me to the now-vacant England Rugby coaching position" said Mallett in an official statement. "The RFU contacted me earlier this week to enquire about
my availability for the position, should Martin Johnson resign.”
He also stated that, “After mulling it over for a few days and discussing the opportunity with close friends and family, I have decided that I will not be making myself available for the position and I have disclosed this to the RFU.”
England is likely to announce a new manager in the first week on January 2012.
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