Johnson sticks with struggling English backs

ENGLAND manager Martin Johnson described his selection decision for Saturday’s Calcutta Cup showdown with Scotland as the toughest of his 18-month tenure.

The “marathon” deliberations following England’s 20-16 defeat to Ireland resulted in two key decisions – to retain Delon Armitage at full-back ahead of Ben Foden and replace flanker Lewis Moody with Joe Worsley.

“It was probably the longest selection process since I have been involved and the toughest but that’s good. There is pressure on players to perform,” said Johnson.