Martin Johnson, Leicester England Players and Ex Players

At the weekend I had the privilege to watch Zurich Premiership team Leicester Tigers play wonderful rugby to beat Newcastle Falcons.

I watched in wonderment as Martin Johnson, marshalled his players, laying the law down as to what he wanted and expected of them, this was the England - Martin, I had watched many times and I delighted in seeing again, even though I am a Falcon Fan.

I was thrown right back to that momentous Rugby World Cup day and in my minds eye I could see Martin again laying the law down and telling everyone of those England players ' he was not leaving that field a loser' and to get on and win.

Martin is a wise General, he retired at the top and whilst there is talk of him perhaps joining the Lions, I don't think he will somehow.  Having won a RWC medal, Martin retired from International Rugby to give his all to Leicester Tigers and he is doing just that.

There is no doubt about it, Leicester Tigers form over the last couple of seasons has been effected by the cause of England.

When I reflected and looked at all the England players in the Leicester team, this was when it truly hit home, the Country vs Club debate.  

I really feel that Leicester suffered with the loss of their players to England over the last couple of years.  Yes they came back and played at times but I do not believe that you can give 100%, to two different goals.   When players like Johnson, Rowntree, West, Backie, Healey, Kay, White, Moody, Corry etc., played I am sure in the back of their mind they did not want to get hurt as the carrot dangled for the Lions or the RWC.  It is only natural players want to play and represent their country at the highest level but at what cost to their club.

Martin and those players who have retired from International Rugby, are paying their dues and putting back into their clubs what has been missing these last couple of years.

And when Martin hangs up his boots, I really can not see him wanting to be involved with any other team, than Tigers or perhaps England?  I for one would be delighted if he stepped forward again for the England cause.

And if Andy Robinson does not get it right in the Autumn and I have a feeling he won't - as I expect England to win against Canada but be beaten by the Bok and the Wallabies - and if we have a sickly Six Nations. Well................ who knows.

One thing I do know for certain, the difference between Martin Johnson inspiring a team and Jonny Wilkinson was immense!

Picture copyright of Sheeny (Falcon supporter)

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