Cass402 says...

@jonesy2, i'm English and i dont feel in the least bit embarrassed, full of respect for Smiths decision to stay and looking forward to what Mike Catt can bring to the party. Always find that pre-judging things has a habit of biting you in the arse.

Posted 14:41 01st May 2012

pierredelot1 says...

Fair play to him. Must say I was always worried how he would deal with backs particularly, who don't have the same standard of skill sets as those brought up in the New Zealand system. Until England can really start bringing through players who can do all the basics at pace and to a high level, they will struggle to compete. Hence the desire by England in the past to rely on physical dominance. Can't see how its embarrassing for England, they spoke to the person who they consider the best and he's decided to stay where he is, fairly normal really. Gracious refusal though, it leaves the door open for the future when things may have moved on a bit. Lets see what Catt can do, although if the back play by London Irish of late is anything to go by, there's some hard work ahead. Lancaster, Catt and the rest of the coaches have a big challenge ahead of them. From an England point of view though the major challenge is to improve the skills coming through in the junior ranks and that responsibility lies within the RFU and its development resources.

Posted 13:44 01st May 2012

Jediboy says...

You've got to respect his decision. Would have been good for England I feel. But I'd hardly call it a snub.

Posted 13:11 01st May 2012

APV1 says...

"I also want to compliment the RFU on the way they have conducted the process. They have acted with integrity, diligence and patience."

That makes a nice change!

One one hand it's a shame, as he's an excellent coach. On the other, it gives Catty a chance at a permanent role...

Posted 12:54 01st May 2012