Jake White

The former South Africa coach has all the right qualifications: experience, availability and the politics of the RFU would be nothing compared with the snakepit that is South Africa’s rugby administration. But it is understood that White would not feature in a panel put together by Martin Johnson, perhaps because too little time has elapsed since he coached the Springboks to five successive wins over England during 2006-07.

Pat Howard

Knows the terrain, knows the players, knows the manager. Howard showed the maturity he brings as a player and coach during his seven-year stint at Leicester after arriving in 1998. Like Brian Ashton, he encourages players to think for themselves; but the Australian also brings an overseas attitude that Clive Woodward, for one, found valuable when he appointed John Mitchell as his first forwards coach. Howard could head a panel or take a specialist role.

John Wells

His club record stands scrutiny alongside any potential rival’s, including that of Shaun Edwards, but England’s forward displays under his direction have been inconsistent. It has not helped, of course, that the personnel involved have changed so much and, if Ashton were not to be involved, Wells has the self-confidence to take England to New Zealand in June in an acting capacity.

Mike Ford

Like Wells, still fresh in an England context and his defence has been effective enough. England conceded one try during the knockout phase of last year’s World Cup and only five during the recent RBS Six Nations Championship, two of which came from kicks charged down.

Graham Rowntree

The newest kid on the coaching block, but already credited with much good work in the organisation of the scrum. Won the last of his 54 caps as recently as 2006, so well on top of modern scrummaging trends and eager to bring his experience to bear on the next generation.

Shaun Edwards

Until the Welsh Rugby Union waves a signed contract, there will be hopes that he can be lured from Warren Gatland’s side. But if Edwards wants to continue with London Wasps, Premiership regulations would debar him from a role with England, so why would he move given that he now has what he wants, with both club and country?

Words by David Hands