Johnson confirms decision to quit

Martin Johnson has confirmed he has quit as England team manager at a press conference at Twickenham this afternoon.

Johnson was widely expected to tender his resignation after England’s disappointing World Cup campaign last month.

The Red Rose were eliminated by eventual finalists France at the quarter-final stage – to fall below their stated semi-final objective – while off-field controversies further undermined Johnson during the tournament in New Zealand.

Johnson revealed he had decided not to seek to renew his contract which runs out next month.

“I’ve given this a huge amount of thought since we returned from the World Cup and didn’t come to this decision lightly,” he said.

“I think it’s in the best interests of myself and the England team that I don’t continue on into next year.

“It’s been a fantastic three and a half years. I’ve worked with some fantastic players and a great coach and and management group.

“Whilst we’ve had our most successful season with 10 wins from 13 we are disappointed with how we ended it with the World Cup.

“I think it’s the right decision at this time.”