All Blacks coach Henry interested in RFU role

While outgoing All Blacks coach Henry is basking in the glory of his side’s triumph at Eden Park last weekend, his England counterpart Martin Johnson finds his role under scrutiny following an ignominious quarter-final exit at the hands of France.

Henry would not be in contention to replace Johnson but could work within the RFU in a backroom capacity. Rob Andrew currently occupies the role of Professional Rugby Director but, like Johnson, finds his future the subject of speculation.

Former Wales coach Henry said: “Yes, I would talk to the RFU, sure.

“I couldn’t just not do anything. I would love to help other people.

“I’m particularly proud about the environment created in this All Blacks team. I would love to work in coach development, player development, environmental development, cultural development of a group of people. I’m passionate about that.”

As for knee-jerk sackings of high-profile coaches, Henry added: “Too many people with real ability get shot because of a result.

“Replacing a coach because of a result or because of public pressure or media pressure is not the right thing to do. Replacing a coach because he’s not good enough is the right thing to do.

“Look at all the successful coaches around the world. They have got longevity. Look at Sir Alex Ferguson, longevity.”

Welsh star Gavin Henson, who was given his first Test cap by the New Zealander in 2001, believes that it would be a good move for the RFU to enlist his services.

“Obviously he is now a World Cup-winning coach and I owe him a lot because he gave me my first cap,” said Henson.

“With Wales, things did not go so well after he had left.

“Having won the World Cup he has shown that he is a great coach and of course anyone would want to have him working for them.”