Ashton must stay in some capacity — Catt

MIKE CATT is convinced Brian Ashton must remain part of the England set-up - but questioned his suitability for the role of head coach.

Responding to criticism of his autobiography, Catt defended his unflattering assessment of Ashton’s contribution to England’s campaign in France by maintaining it was the “truth”.

The 36-year-old stated Ashton failed to provide leadership during a shambolic start to the group stage of the World Cup, describing the build-up to the 36-0 defeat by South Africa as the “worst week I had known in international rugby”.

Despite his comments, Catt yesterday insisted it is crucial Ashton continues to work with the England players – but cast doubt over whether he is the right candidate to head the coaching team.

“I’ve got the utmost respect for Brian after working with him for 15 years,” he said.

“We desperately need to keep Brian involved, but I’m not sure whether that should be as a head coach or a senior coach.

“He brings a freedom to the park that youngsters coming into the game now will thrive on. It’s vital he stays.

“But Brian doesn’t like all the other stuff that accompanies the head coach’s position. We need to get the best out of him by seeing him coach on the training ground.”

England’s heroic march to the World Cup final has been tainted by the sniping at Ashton, with Catt and Lawrence Dallaglio offering unflattering verdicts on his input.

The duo have been condemned for attacking the 61-year-old so soon after the tournament, but they are not alone in undermining his position.

A report earlier in the week saw a gang of four unnamed senior players paint a grim picture of the disarray within the camp during the pool stages.

Such negative publicity hardly improves Ashton’s hopes of extending his one-year rolling contract, which expires in December, with director of elite rugby Rob Andrew currently reviewing the World Cup.