Following last Saturday’s match v South Africa my position remained that I was confident that I would coach the England team through to a successful World Cup in 2007, notwithstanding the setbacks that we have had through the autumn. It is my understanding that I had, and still have, the support of the England players and the England management team.

“However, in the last 48 hours I have been advised by senior colleagues that those who have governance over me — the RFU management board — do not, and will not, continue to support me as England head coach. Therefore, it is with regret that I have agreed a parting of the ways with the RFU and I will cease to be England head coach with immediate effect.

“For six years I have been proud to work with some outstanding people in the England team management and in the England squad. They all understand the responsibility, sacrifice and hard work that it takes for England to win. I would like to thank each of them for their support and professionalism throughout.

“On the occasion of my departure, I leave very much hoping that rather than sacrificing any more England victories and sacrificing more quality coaches, that the professional game in this country admits that the current structure and system for developing elite rugby players and performance in the international arena is not working. If that is so then my successor may have a sensible platform from which to meet expectations for England success.