After England's disappointing world cup exit a few days ago much speculation has arisen about the future of Martin Johnson. Several different rugby pundits have suggested that England's frustrating campaign was down to the players and their off-field behaviour. On the other hand, other commentators have said that Martin Johnson is being covered up by previous experience and that his coaching errors should be revealed. Click read more to see what Scrum Five's editor thinks.


I am completely stumped by this argument. I can't imagine the stress members of the RFU will be under in making the decision. However, just for the purpose of this article I have come to a decision. I think Martin Johnson should go.

The England manager is being covered up by the media. His previous experience as a player for Leicester and England is covering up any potential coaching errors he has made. In press conferences he seems to come across as a straight forward, no nonsense coach and he knows what he's talking about. He certainly does know what he's talking about, as a player maybe but as a coach, less so.

He may defend the England players off field behaviour and many believe that is the cause of England's misery in this years tournament. Should the team staff have kept more control over them?

Sam Warburton told the media earlier on in the tournament that Wales had a no drinking policy in the camp which meant they were a little more in control and you will have noticed they have got one step further than England. But we have to remember that participation in midget throwing contests and jumping off ferries may have something to do with drinking but why weren't they under control?

At the end of the day, it's a combination of both. If Martin Johnson had a little more coaching experience and the England players, who weren't on a club rugby tour - they were on a Rugby World Cup campaign representing their country, should have been more under control. If Martin Johnson is replaced, I would hope the RFU appoint a little more experienced coach and maybe import one from abroad.

We really want your thoughts on this subject - should Johnson stay or go? Tweet your thoughts to @ScrumFiveRugby, comment your thoughts below or email yourviews@scrumfive.net.