Red carpet proves red rag to bullish Johnson

MARTIN JOHNSON — hero or villain? Both.

The giant Leicester and England lock slots neatly into either role. His forceful play, inspirational leadership and win at all costs mentality have made him a hero among the England squad and their fans.

They simply do not look as powerful without his reassuring presence in the engine room. If England are to justify their World Cup favourites tag, it is essential that Johnson and their other talisman Jonny Wilkinson are fit come October.