If we were Martin Johnson, we would be getting fed up with people wanting the job I still have.

Of course, it is unlikely that Johnson will hold onto the job of managing the English rugby team, so disastrous was their World Cup showing, but just a day after New Zealand’s Graham Henry said he would consider working for England in some capacity, Nick Mallet has thrown his hat into the ring.

The former Italian coach left the Azzurri after the World Cup and he has said he would consider the England job, but only in eight months.

The South African needs a holiday and won’t take up any position until June, meaning he is calculating that England will stick with Johnson until after the Six Nations and then fire him. He may be right but it is a brave tactic.

The English-born Springbok says in today’s London Independent:  "I've not spoken to anyone about international coaching positions. But I would consider each on their own merits if it happens." In other words, I will take it if it’s offered.

Of course, we should all respect Martin Johnson at this difficult time, just as he respected the protocol in Lansdowne Road all those years ago, so we will refrain from further comment.

Until tomorrow.