Martin Johnson insisted he is looking forward to becoming manager of the England rugby team.

The man who led England to success in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, will take charge of the team at the beginning of July, replacing former head coach Brian Ashton.

Johnson said: "I think it is a tremendously exciting time for English rugby. I think the Premiership is a fantastic competition and we're very strongly placed for the young guys to play some great club rugby and for England.

"It's been great for me to have a couple of years out of the game. I'm really looking forward to getting on with the job.

"It's a job that needs to be done very well. I'm fully aware that I don't have any experience in management or coaching but I have confidence in the people around me."

Ashton remains under contract with the RFU and he has been offered a job as head coach of the national academy, in charge of England Saxons, under-20s and under-18s.

They hope to convince him that he will be able to help develop future England players.

Ashton has told Rob Andrew he will not take legal action over the demotion he has been offered.

Ashton will meet with the RFU next week to discuss the job offer and Rob Andrew, director of elite rugby, insists Ashton has assured him he will not sue the RFU for wrongful dismissal.

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