Lions opt for strength in numbers

ENGLAND’S retired World Cup heroes are unlikely to be on the plane with former boss Clive Woodward for the Lions tour of New Zealand next summer - but everybody else seems to be.

Although stars such as Lawrence Dallaglio, Martin Johnson and Neil Back are still playing top-flight club rugby, Woodward is set to focus on the current international stage, providing opportunities for the likes of Paul O’Connell, Donncha O’Callaghan and Gordon D’Arcy.

“Everyone is available,” said the Lions head coach, who unveiled a 26-strong management yesterday.