Sir Clive still England rugby coach despite speculation

The England Rugby Football Union (RFU) board has rejected media speculation that its coach has resigned, but Sir Clive Woodward's future as England rugby coach is still uncertain.

Reports yesterday suggested that Sir Clive would end his seven-year tenure as England rugby coach.

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) said yesterday that Sir Clive had not formally tendered his written resignation, and "contrary to media reports we have not refused to accept it".

The RFU confirmed that discussions between Chairman of the RFU Management Board Graeme Cattermole, Chief Executive Francis Baron, Sir Clive Woodward and his legal representative had re-convened this morning.

The BBC reported today that talks between Sir Clive and the board are centering around when he leaves, rather than if. Woodward's current contract runs until 2007, with a clause stipulating that he serve out a one-year notice period.

According to the BBC, Sir Clive has expressed a desire to make a go of coaching in football. Media speculation has singled out Southampton as the most likely destination for the 48-year-old should he choose to switch sports.

If Sir Clive walks away from Twickenham, he does as England's most successful coach. After taking over from Jack Rowell in 1997, Sir Clive has steered the national side to World Cup glory and, after going close on several occasion, finally scooped for England the Grand Slam in 2003.

Woodward's departure would be the second body blow for the RFU following on from Lawrence Dallaglio shock announcement on Tuesday that he would retirement from international rugby effective immediately.

Woodward is still expected to lead the British Lions to New Zealand next year whatever the outcome of today's meeting.

(gmcg/mb)