Woodward expects tough Six Nations opener against Italy

A leading South African rugby magazine claimed the England boss expressed an interest in the role earlier this year.

But Woodward, who signed a new four-year contract with England before the World Cup, says he is going nowhere.

"I haven't spoken in any shape or form to any official of the South African Rugby Union. There is absolutely no foundation to it," he said.

If I wasn't coaching England, yes I'd love to coach any other side including South Africa, Wales, France or anybody Clive Woodward

Woodward added: "I signed my contract with the RFU the day before we went to the World Cup, I'm coaching the Lions Tour and there's no better job for Clive Woodward than coaching England.

"If I wasn't coaching England, yes I'd love to coach any other side including South Africa, Wales, France or anybody.

"It's a great job to do and a great environment to be in. But the number one job for myself is coaching England, I've signed a four year contract and that's it.

"So quite where the story came from I've no idea but there's no foundation to it whatsoever."

The article, in the March edition of SA Rugby Magazine, claims several South African Rugby Union Board members were made aware of Woodward's alleged interest shortly after Springboks coach Rudolf Straeuli resigned.

But the magazine also says the possibility of approaching Woodward was not even raised and the matter went no further.