Andrew believes central contracts would ruin the game

"I don't understand the central contracts debate because it won't work in rugby union," he said.

"This could be the worst decision the RFU ever makes if it decides to press on with it, because it means clubs just won't bother producing England players.

"If the RFU are looking for a fight, then they've picked the wrong time."

The Rugby Football Union believes central contracts would help the England's chances of retaining the World Cup in 2007 by reducing the number of games the top stars play.

But Andrew has vowed that Premiership clubs would stick together on the issue and there would only be one winner.

"What the RFU will have to realise is that if a player signs a central contract they will then not be allowed to play in the Premiership. You can't have your cake and eat it," he said.

"England is not like other countries where the Union actually controls the club sides, pulling the purse strings.

The RFU don't appear to understand the strength of feeling within the clubs Rob Andrew

In Ireland, for example, if the IRFU tell Leinster that Brian O'Driscoll can only play in a set number of Celtic League matches, then Leinster have no choice but to comply because they are owned by the IRFU.

"You can't do that in England, and the clubs will take an extremely strong line on this issue.

Andrew also warned that central contracts would also result in an influx of South Africans or Pacific Islanders who would be available to clubs all season.

"It's easy to get those guys to come to England because the Guinness Premiership is the best league in the world, and it's growing every year," added Andrew.