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Ashton's future is uncertain
17/03/2008 08:03 - (SA)
London - Brian Ashton admits his long-term job prospects are uncertain but the England head coach is convinced his side has a bright future.
Ashton finished the Six Nations campaign on a high as England routed Ireland 33-10 to finish runners-up - their best final placing for five years.
But a first home defeat against Wales for 20 years and a miserable loss in Scotland left the English with bittersweet memories of the competition.
Now Ashton turns his attention to a daunting two-Test tour to New Zealand in June. Although he has a rolling 12-month contract he knows he may not be kept on beyond that trip as Rugby Football Union elite rugby director Rob Andrew prepares to commence his annual Six Nations review.
"Whether I am staying in the job or not I've no idea. Wait and see," Ashton said.
At least flyhalf Danny Cipriani's impressive full debut, which included an 18-point haul, proves the England team is about to benefit from a much-needed infusion of young blood.
Good books
"The future is bright and England supporters can look forward to some exciting times over the next three years," Ashton said.
"The side played close to its potential. That was one of the most complete performances we've seen for some time.
"I remember games like that leading up to the 2003 World Cup. I don't remember many since. It was a game played with a fair bit of authority."
Ashton had dropped Cipriani from the squad for the Scotland defeat when he was pictured leaving a London nightclub just days before the match. But the 20-year-old was back in Ashton's good books after a mature display against the Irish at Twickenham.
"He's got such a wide range of skills with hands and feet," Ashton said. "He has got this maverick influence, and I think you saw that in large doses.
"He is a very, very confrontational player. He's got massive confidence in his own ability and is very dangerous running at the opposition.
"There will be areas he can improve. He's got to keep his feet on the ground and play the sort of rugby that he plays."
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