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Smith confirmed in England role

Monday 14th July 2008

New opportunity: Smith joins Johnson's England

England boss Martin Johnson has named Brian Smith as his senior Attack Coach with immediate effect.

Smith joins the management team led by boss Johnson after the Rugby Football Union were able to negotiate his release from London Irish.

The Exiles Director of Rugby, born in Australia, will work alongside defensive mastermind Mike Ford and forwards coach John Wells.

"The appointment of Brian is great news for the England set up as we look forward to the increased time we have with the players under the new agreement with Premier Rugby Limited," said Johnson.

"Brian is a top attack coach and I'm sure he will be a real asset to us. His appointment finalises the senior coaching team for next season."

It seems the deal was done under amicable terms according to John Conlan, Director of London Irish and immediate past Chairman of the club, who was happy that Smith and the club have parted company on solid terms.

"We're pleased that the negotiations with the RFU for the release of Brian Smith from his contract have been conducted in a good natured way and concluded to the satisfaction of both parties," Conlan explained.

"We wish him well for his new role with England.

"On behalf of all at London Irish I would like to thank Brian for his contribution to the club over the past three seasons. It has been an era of significant progress that we are determined to build on."

Meanwhile, the departing Smith revealed that the lure of England was too tempting an offer to overlook at the current time.

"The opportunity to coach at international level comes along rarely in one's career so I'm looking forward to my new position with England, it's an exciting time to be involved," he said.

Last season Irish played in a memorable Heineken Cup semi-final against Toulouse, taking the current French champions to the wire.

Smith has also won three Guinness Premiership Coach of the Month Awards in three seasons, recognition for the club's attacking style of rugby.

"I would like to thank London Irish for the opportunity the club has given me," Smith added.

"I've enjoyed working with the playing and coaching staff and would like to thank all at the club, especially its exceptional supporters, for all the encouragement I've received."