ENGLAND head coach Brian Ashton will discover his fate today when Rob Andrew presents his RBS 6 Nations review to the Rugby Football Union's management board.

Ashton's position has been the subject of intense speculation as critics question his ability to lead England, despite their second- place finish in the championship.

His future has been complicated by reports that Andrew, the RFU's director of elite rugby, has been engaged in talks with Martin Johnson over the creation of an all-powerful role.

The appointment of England's 2003 World Cup-winning captain, 39, would receive universal approval; a lack of experience in the position counts against him.

Johnson's presence would also impinge on Ashton, because the two-time Lions captain would demand an input in or control of selection and tactics and spurn the offer of a figurehead role.

Since Ashton's elevation to head coach in December 2006, he has requested the aid of a manager but has also made it clear the man chosen should operate in the background and not be involved in decision-making.

The 61-year-old even stated he would not want a personality such as Johnson involved, so any such move would force him to reconsider his position - even if Andrew wanted to keep him board.

The make-up of the coaching team is also an area of concern, which is sure to be highlighted this morning when the management board convene to discuss Andrew's report.

Assistants John Wells and Mike Ford were in place when Ashton succeeded Andy Robinson and talk of disunity among the trio persists.

Lurking on the periphery and offering another possible avenue to Andrew is Jake White, South Africa's World Cup-winning coach who is available and has repeatedly expressed his interest in the England job.

Austin Healey, another former player with no tracksuit experience, has also been mentioned as a possible addition, although his role as a backs coach would clash with Ashton's expertise.

A further sub-text to discussions is Andrew's own position.

It was Twickenham's rugby supremo who initially appointed Ashton and then backed him again with a one-year rolling contract, after England had reached the World Cup final.

Were Andrew to dispense with or demote Ashton at this stage, it would inevitably reflect on his own judgement.

Former England prop and RFU committee member Jeff Probyn questions Johnson's suitability and the subsequent impact his appointment would have.

Rob needs his head examined if he recommends bringing Martin Johnson in,'' he said. He has no experience of management or administration, even at club level. Brian has stated he wants a manager, but not a manager as an equal on the rugby front.

There is no compromise there.''