Cueto has scored 14 tries in 27 appearances for England

Mark Cueto is confident that Martin Johnson can take England back to the top of world rugby, despite a mixed Six Nations campaign in 2009.

The Sale winger told BBC Radio Stoke that Johnson's relationship with the England supporters will give him the time to get things right.

"You're always in the firing line and Johnno certainly is if results don't go our way," said 29-year-old Cueto.

"That reputation he has with the fans helps him as a manager."

Johnson captained England to World Cup success in Australia in 2003, retiring immediately after the tournament to concentrate on coaching.

"He's more of a manager than a coach. Johnno's there all the time overseeing all the coaching team," Cueto added.

"He's one of the most experienced rugby players around and that's invaluable."

Cueto will soon be coached at club level by another of the 2003 World Cup-winning squad, with Jason Robinson set to take over at Sale Sharks next season.

"He said himself that he felt like he was wasting the 15 years of experience he's got, and that it would have been criminal if he didn't use that to help other players," Cueto said.

Meanwhile, the Sale winger has said he may think about joining the exodus of players moving into the French domestic league for financial reasons.

"If someone offers to double your wages, you've got to consider it," Cueto said.

"I'm more than happy at Sale and I'd love to finish my career there, but you never say never in this game."

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