By Andrew McKenzie

Johnson can now concentrate on games against rugby's heavyweights

England's elite rugby players have ended their dispute with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) after signing a new performance-related pay deal.

The Professional Rugby Players' Association (PRA) negotiated the contract that will run for four years.

Reports had claimed the players could strike over the RFU's plans.

But PRA chief Damien Hopley told BBC Sport: "The new deal will see the players well rewarded. They will earn considerably more if they win."

Team England Rugby, who were represented by the PRA, and the RFU agreed on a deal that runs from 1 July 2008 until 30 June 2012.

The contract includes both individual and team bonuses on a match-by-match basis.

Under the previous deal, England players were paid a flat rate of �9,000 per game.

The new contract will see a flat rate of �8,200 per game, but victory will see that rise to about �11,000.

Hopley said that with image rights on top, the players will earn �13,500 per game, with a potential yearly wage of �185,000 a season.

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"Both sides were robust but committed to sorting out a deal. The discussions went to the wire but we're delighted with the outcome.

"I have been in with the squad recently and there is a tremendous atmosphere in the camp. Everyone is delighted to put these issues to bed."

England have a demanding schedule in November, with Tests against the Pacific Islands, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand in consecutive weeks at Twickenham.

And team manager Martin Johnson was pleased to be able to concentrate on playing matters after the financial issues were finally put to bed.

"It's important these off-the-field matters were resolved ahead of the season," said Johnson.

"Everyone has bought into and supports the agreement."

RFU director of elite rugby Rob Andrew added: "I'd like to thank the PRA and the players for their input during some very constructive negotiations."

Back in 2000, the England squad, which was led by Johnson, went on a brief strike in a row over financial arrangements before the issue was resolved.