I never came close to quitting, insists Johnson as Wilkinson sinks Aussies

ENGLAND manager Martin Johnson did not once seriously consider his position despite criticism prior to Saturday’s win over Australia in Sydney.

Jonny Wilkinson’s penalty sealed a 21-20 success on the same ground where the England fly-half’s extra-time drop goal secured victory in the 2003 World Cup final over Australia. It was only the third time that England have beaten Australia Down Under and the first victory against a Tri-Nations team since Johnson’s reign began in 2008.

The England manager had to endure criticism after poor autumn and RBS Six Nations campaigns, before last week’s 27-17 first Test defeat against Australia in Perth cast further doubt on his future in the job.