Johnson is an English rugby icon

New England team manager Martin Johnson has confirmed the appointment of a specialist backs coach is one of his main priorities.

Former England stars Mike Catt and Austin Healey and Northampton coach Jim Mallinder have all been touted as contenders for the vacant position.

Johnson said: "We need a backs coach. Whether he will be the senior coach among that group, we will see."

He indicated he may bring in specialist expertise for specific positions.

"We may decide we need support in some areas," Johnson explained.

If you ever say 'same again' in sport, you start going backwards Martin Johnson

Johnson said he believes a different perspective from outside the main group of coaches can have a beneficial effect.

"We need to accept ideas from outside the group," he added: "One of Clive Woodward's strengths was that he went out of his sport to get ideas. Some of them were great, and they added to things.

"He was always having ideas, that was part of his strength. If you ever say 'same again' in sport, you start going backwards."

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The World Cup-winning captain sought advice from Woodward, who performed a similar role to Johnson's remit, when the RFU made their offer for him to return to rugby.

"I spoke to Clive about it," Johnson added. "I spoke to him when I retired and I speak to him a number of times a year.

"Sometimes you have a take on something and other people have a different take, or see you differently to how you see yourself.

"Some people advised caution, and a lot said 'you have a lot to lose.'

"You put yourself on the line every time you play and go out there. Your reputation is on the line."