Nick Mallett rules himself out of England running

Former Italy coach Nick Mallett has ruled himself out of the running to be the next England rugby manager.

Coach Martin Johnson resigned from the post on Wednesday.

The 55-year-old had been heavily-tipped to take over from the World Cup-winning captain.

"The RFU contacted me earlier this week to enquire about my availability for the position, should Martin Johnson resign," said Mallett in a statement. "I had previously expressed my interest in the position publicly and was interested to hear what RFU representatives had to say.

"After mulling it over for a few days and discussing the opportunity with close friends and family, I have decided that I will not be making myself available for the position and I have disclosed this to the RFU."

The former Springbok had been in charge of Italy since 2007.