Ashton has called for more positive rugby from English teams

Rowell told BBC Radio Five Live: "When you get the call from England, that's a big thing to say 'no' to.

"I'm sure Brian's heart would pull him that way, and Bath Rugby would support him if he decided to do that.

"If I were a betting man, I would think that could well happen."

England's entire coaching team has been under fire ever since the side finished a lowly fourth in the last Six Nations campaign, winning just two of their five games.

As a result of that poor showing, the Rugby Football Union decided to hold a review of the England set-up, the outcome of which is due on 26 April.

Rowell anticipates a shake-up, telling Tuesday's Sport On Five programme: "In the last few seasons, England haven't blossomed at all.

"They have a good squad of players, but someone needs to bring them to life in attacking terms.

"Brian could easily come in, and I'm sure he would add impetus to England's try-scoring capability."

Rowell, a former England coach himself, admitted it would be a blow to lose Ashton.

"It would be painful to have to start all over again and find a head coach who would take us to the promised land," said Rowell.

"But the England side should take primacy of purpose. There's nothing bigger.

"If Brian wanted to go that way, we would support him to that end."