Ashton likely to stay on in new role - Baron
Brian Ashton is likely to accept the role of head of the National Academy of the RFU, according to RFU Chief Executive Francis Baron. Ashton was this week sacked as Head Coach of the senior England side to make way for Martin Johnson.
There had been rumours that the former Ireland coach was going to sue the RFU but these have been refuted and Baron insists that negotiations that will lead to Ashton taking up his new post are ongoing.
"Brian is a highly valued employee of the RFU and he remains under contract to us," explained Baron at the press conference where Johnson was unveiled.
"We want Brian to stay as part of our elite rugby structure and we have offered him the alternative position of Head Coach of the National Academy.
"This is a wider role than the one he previously held - it covers the Saxons, the Under-20s and Under-18s.
"We believe Brian has an outstanding track record in developing young talent and this role is ideally suited to Brian's special skills set.
He added that he hoped details would be confirmed with Ashton next week.
He said: "I spoke to Brian and he has confirmed his interest in taking up the new position we have offered him.
"I very much believe he will remain part of the team - he has a massive amount still to offer England Rugby and I hope we can finalise those details next week.
RFU Elite Director of Rugby Rob Andrew confirmed that Ashton would not pursue legal action against the RFU.
He said: "We are working very closely with Brian and he is very keen to continue to work with the RFU.
"He also asked me to say that contrary to various reports he will not be suing the RFU over this issue, and we will be working through the issues with Brian in a very professional manner over the next few days."
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