Johnson must rebuild 'Fortress Twickenham': Corry

Former captain Martin Corry has called on England’s players to make Twickenham a fortress as he looks forward to an exciting new era for the national side under the stewardship of Martin Johnson.

England face the Pacific Islands on Saturday in Johnson’s first game since he took over as manager in April.

He will then face the more daunting task of an international triple-header against Australia, South Africa and New Zealand.

“I think this is the start of a new era for English rugby,” Corry said.

“It is a very exciting time and I’m looking forward to seeing how he develops his side. It may take a week or two or it may take a year.

“He needs time to develop but it’s important that he does it whilst winning. That’s the hard thing.

“Over the years we have built up a fortress at Twickenham and that has come crumbling down a bit recently.

“Over the next few years we have to get that back so that all teams, regardless of their rank, come to Twickenham and know they are in for one hell of a game.”

Corry earned 64 England caps during a 10-year international career and was part of the team Johnson captained to World Cup glory in 2003.

He believes one of the main reasons behind that team’s success was their unity, and has urged Johnson to be patient if his new side do not hit it off straight away.

“This is only the start. World Cups aren’t won straight away,” said Corry at the launch of the 'Haynes Rugby Union Manual'.

“You have to develop a side and a strategy and the only way you can do that is through continuity of players.”

In contrast to the 2003 team, this Saturday’s line up is relatively inexperienced with only one player over 30, Harlequins’ Nick Easter.

Delon Armitage, Riki Flutey, Ugo Monye and Nick Kennedy will all make their debuts and Corry believes Johnson must be patient with them if they are to develop into top-class players.

“It will be a great occasion for these guys but they aren’t experienced internationals so they have to be given a certain amount of leeway for that,” Corry added.

“He (Johnson) is starting to develop a core group of players that could take us all the way to the World Cup.

“As long as we see improvement in the side over these four games then we can perhaps forgive a few mistakes that they might make along the way.”

While his leadership qualities have never been questioned, Johnson’s appointment has been questioned due to his lack of coaching experience.

But after eight years playing alongside Johnson in the Leicester pack, Corry insists the 38-year-old has what it takes to make the transition.

“Pressure won’t get to him. He knows what he wants and knows how to put it across.” Corry added.

“He has a great affinity with the players and this role is made for him. Hopefully he can get off to a winning start.”