Catt thinks Ashton can success after all
Mike Catt has diluted his scathing comments about Brian Ashton, and has now backed the England coach to continue his success at the helm, with the right help around him. The 36-year-old utility back, who propelled England to an emotional second consecutive World Cup Final earlier this month, had made the original remarks in his autobiography.
The London Irish player announced his retirement from international rugby after the 15-6 loss to the Springboks at the Stade De France, but criticised Ashton's management style and tactics when the squad had returned to England.
Though Catt has not totally retracted his comments - which appeared in a Sunday newspaper - he has admitted that they were taken too far.
He agreed that the comments were "very damning" but stated that that was the way he felt at that particular time.
"What that article unfortunately doesn't bring up is that I've had 15 very good years with Brian Ashton," he said. "I've got the utmost respect for him.
"I'm not apologising because what I put in there I thoroughly believe. I have the utmost respect for Brian.
"He's got a hell of a lot of knowledge on the attack side of things. I think if they get the management around him, the coaches around him, that can help him out, he's definitely one for the job."
Ashton's contract with the Rugby Football Union is due to terminate on 31 December. The RFU says it has no plans to offer the former Bath coach a new deal immediately and wants to take its time before coming to a decision.
World Cup-winning coach Jake White, who officially stepped down from his post with the Boks this morning, has been linked with the post, but Catt thinks Ashton deserves an extended run in charge after succeeding Andy Robinson a year ago.
"Brian is a very good coach," added Catt. "If we take all the other things away and Brian just coaches, he's fantastic."
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