By Country / England

Brian Ashton has rejected the RFU's offer to become England's national academy head coach, choosing to instead pursue "a range of high-level performance consultancy services" for the RFU.

After several months of deliberation, Ashton has decided the way forward is  with his "own company delivering high-level performance processes in all areas of sporting and business life."

The RFU copped a lot of stick for their handling of Ashton with widespread opinion being that the academy role is a cheap alternative.

Brian Ashton has reportedly turned down the offer of taking charge of the RFU national academy, according to the Guardian on Monday.

The RFU remain hopeful that Ashton will come on board in some fashion or another, but the manner in which he was dismissed, didn't really have any sane rugby fan rushing to the bookies.

RFU Chairman Martyn Thomas still holds hopes of getting his man and he expects an announcement within the next fortnight.

England have finally got their man with Brian Smith teaming up with Martin Johnson to become the senior Attack Coach.

The former Exiles Director of Rugby of three years joins forces with Mike Ford and John Wells underneath Johnson's leadership.

Martin Johnson said: “The appointment of Brian is great news for the England set up as we look forward to the increased time we have with the players under the new agreement with Premier Rugby Limited. Brian is a top attack coach and I’m sure he will be a real asset to us. His appointment finalises the senior coaching team for next season.”

Brian Smith said: “The opportunity to coach at international level comes along rarely in one’s career so I’m looking forward to my new position with England, it’s an exciting time to be involved.”

“I would like to thank London Irish for the opportunity the club has given me,” Smith continued. “I’ve enjoyed working with the playing and coaching staff and would like to thank all at the club, especially its exceptional supporters, for all the encouragement I’ve received.”