JOHNSON SHOWS HIS HAND

By Alex Lowe, PA Sport Rugby Union Reporter England manager Martin Johnson's probable team for the opening autumn international became clearer yesterday when he made eight players available for EDF Energy Cup action this weekend. Johnson had to send a number of his squad back to their clubs under the new agreement between the Rugby Football Union and Premier Rugby over elite player access. But the identity of those returning home last night was potentially significant and will raise speculation as to where they stand in Johnson's thinking ahead of the Investec Challenge Series. Those leaving Pennyhill Park included Wasps full-back Josh Lewsey and Gloucester inside centre Olly Barkley plus Leicester hooker George Chuter. All the players will return to the squad on Sunday night and are still available for selection to play the... [read full story]