English Rugby
England forced to wait on Catt?
ESPN Staff
September 4, 2012
Mike Catt shows off his handling skills, Pennyhill Park, Bagshot, Surrey, May 22, 2012
Mike Catt coached England on their tour of South Africa © Getty Images
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Players/Officials: Mike Catt

England have been forced to wait on announcing Mike Catt's appointment as their new attack coach with the Rugby Football Union failing to agree compensation with London Irish, according to reports.

Catt left London Irish at the end of last season despite him having a year left on his contract. This means that the RFU has to agree compensation with the Exiles before they can appoint Catt. The Times reports that London Irish are holding out for a "sizeable sum" for the former England fly-half. But sources have told the newspaper that: "We [RFU] are having positive discussions with London Irish and are hopeful of a swift conclusion."

Catt took charge of the attack on England's summer tour to South Africa and Lancaster is understood to be keen on adding him to the current three-man coaching team. But reports suggest that the Exiles are playing hardball over Catt's release.

England face Fiji, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand in November and Lancaster will hope to have Catt installed for then. The newspaper goes on to report that London Irish "could be accused of double standards after they allowed Toby Booth and Neil Hatley, respectively the head coach and forwards coach, to join Bath without recompense despite still being under contract".

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