Andrew keeps Ashton in dark
Andrew will review the events of France 2007 over the coming weeks
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Monday, 22, Oct 2007 08:33
England rugby supremo Rob Andrew has refused to be drawn on the chances of coach Brian Ashton continuing his tenure in charge of the national team.
The RFU's elite rugby director was speaking after the squad arrived back from their 15-6 defeat at the hands of South Africa in Paris.
"We will review the World Cup correctly and properly in due course over the next few weeks, and we will look to go forward. We need to reflect on what has happened," the former international fly-half said.
"We have a review process that will take place hopefully during November, and we will make decisions thereafter, but I am not going to be held to any deadlines.
"Brian and I have been talking all through the tournament. Brian has made very clear his position to me, and we will sort it out over the next few weeks.
"Everyone needs to go home and relax for a little while. We are doing it properly. Brian is very comfortable with what is going on."
Ashton, who took on the then-stalling world champions at the end of last year, has made no secret of his desire to attempt to regain the Webb Ellis Cup in the 2011 edition of the competition in New Zealand.
"I thoroughly enjoy the job. I'll be 65 years in four years' time. That's a very good age to retire," he said.
However Andrew is eager to avoid the sharp decline that followed England's successful campaign in 2003 and will not be rushed into extending the former Bath head coach's contract.
Sir Clive Woodward's departure in October 2004 was followed by a dismal run of results under Andy Robinson before Ashton was ushered in to take charge ahead of this year's Six Nations.
Even then England were seen as massive underdogs going into the tournament having suffered heavy defeats to France and South Africa during their summer preparations.
"English rugby got itself in a real mess after 2003. It's been an extraordinary effort by Brian and the guys. We must make sure we build on that and move forward," said Andrew.