Taking the positives out of negative situation is very English and an old managerial cliché – but one which I feel should be in the minds of those involved in the future of English rugby.
The leak of the confidential post world cup report has brought some issues into the public domain, and although these problems may have existed for some time, they can no longer be ignored. There will undoubtedly be wholesale changes at all levels of the England set up. Instead of thinking about the negatives, I for one am keen to look at all of the opportunities that may be created out of it.
- Young players
Whilst senior players have taken the brunt of the criticism, many of the young players have come out of it relatively well. There are a number of players who have stood up to be counted and have enhanced their reputations, the reports of young players training hard and having a professional mentality is very positive. Hopefully some of the young guys coming through will see what has happened at the World Cup and in the aftermath and this will make them focus. The players coming through the ranks know that they need to knuckle down if they are to be considered seriously.
- Time to play the wildcard
With a new board, new management and new coaching staff, I would imagine that there may be a bit of a clearing out of the team sheet. I look at it like playing a wildcard in fantasy football. Many of the players will retain their places but let’s hope there is space for some of the form players. Let’s see Strettle, Wade & Sharples in the Six Nations, and give Owen Farrell a chance in the centres. If Robshaw and Wood are really playing as well in the camp as they are on the pitch for their club – maybe we will start seeing them in an England jersey. There has been too much debating as to why those who are playing well are not in the frame when it comes to big test matches.
- Cutthroat coaching methods
Hopefully a new team manager will not bring preconceptions with them. Successful coaches have shown that it is not always about playing the big names or the big personalities, but basing the team sheet on form. Quins changed their captain to Robshaw and have since dropped Skinner to the bench as other players took their chances, traditionally I feel there has been too much of a feeling in the England set up that players who came in were filling in. It’s a harsh game – injuries and suspensions present a chance for another player to get a real shot – if they impress they should keep that spot, until they are no longer the number one. Players can not feel that they are in possession of the jersey, there is just too much talent waiting in the wings.
- New captain
Ironically, the squad needs a Martin Johnson at the helm, a leader on the pitch. Thierry Dusautoir led a disharmonious French side to within a point of the World Cup. There are a number of candidates and only those inside the camp will know who is the man for the job. It has to be someone who can take on the huge responsibility of picking up the pieces and leading a side over the next four years and into RWC 2015, where expectation will be greater than ever.
Here is a great video going round at the moment - does not feel like 10 years since some of these tries! Enjoy!!
Andy
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