Last Modified: 28 Nov 2006
Source: ITN

England rugby boss Andy Robinson is expected to stand down later. (Pic: Reuters)

It is understood that details of his resignation are being finalised ahead of an official announcement from Twickenham.

Robinson and senior RFU figures held lengthy talks yesterday and the outcome is thought to be that the 42-year-old head coach has agreed to quit rather than be sacked.

The RFU has only confirmed that a planned review of England's autumn Test series - they suffered defeats against New Zealand, Argentina and South Africa - is under way.

But it is understood that Robinson will not be in Paris today for the start of three days of World Cup planning meetings, which he had been due to attend alongside England team manager Vivienne Brown.

Robinson, in charge for 22 Tests since replacing Sir Clive Woodward two years ago, won just nine of those games, with a catalogue of despair including an England record-equalling seven successive defeats between February and November this year.

It is thought the existing coaching team of Brian Ashton, John Wells and Mike Ford will remain intact, but RFU elite rugby director Rob Andrew could take a more hands-on role in playing matters.

New Zealander Warren Gatland, South African Nick Mallett, England's World Cup-winning captain Martin Johnson and Bristol head coach Richard Hill have all been touted as possible successors to Robinson.

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