Ashton blow for England
March 20, 2002

England's preparations for their Lloyds TSB Six Nations Championship clash against Wales have bean dealt another blow with an announcement tonight that Brian Ashton has taken temporary leave from the management team.

Ashton, England's assistant coach, will not be involved either for the Wales game on Saturday, or the tournament finale against Italy in Rome on April 7.

The decision has been made for unspecified personal reasons.

"Following discussions with Brian, we have both decided that he should take some time out for a short while," said England boss Clive Woodward.

"I will talk with Brian after the Lloyds TSB Six Nations to reassess the situation, with a view to him returning to work."

Ashton, 55, was appointed to the England coaching staff just before the 1998 southern hemisphere tour, having previously worked with Bath and Ireland's national team.

And he has been widely acclaimed as a key figure in developing England's attacking play, helping to mould one of the most potent back divisions in world rugby.

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