London: Jonny Wilkinson admits he is willing to lend his expertise to England’s World Cup challenge as he moves into coaching.
Former England fly-half Wilkinson, who retired this year after a glittering 17-year career, has been invited to cast an eye over Stuart Lancaster’s squad as they prepare for next year’s tournament on home soil.
Wilkinson, who is currently coaching for one week a month at former club Toulon, insists that just because he could play the game, it does not necessarily mean he can tell others how to do so, but he admits he may take up the invitation.
Speaking at Newcastle racecourse at an event to recruit World Cup volunteers, the England Rugby 2015 ambassador said: “I have spoken to the guys a bit, just because they were saying ‘feel free to come along and have a little chat and see what you think and if there’s anything you can add’.
“I have got plenty of time — and I need plenty of time — to understand where I go next. I’d love to go down there and see what they’re doing because whatever they are doing is very, very good.
“I may pop down there and spend a little time at Pennyhill on the sidelines and watch the guys doing what they are doing and enjoy that.”
However, Wilkinson’s coaching aspirations are currently no more extensive than his role at Toulon, and thoughts of greater involvement are far from his mind.
“It’s a tough world and the biggest mistake you can make is thinking that just because you played the game, you know what you are doing,” Wilkinson added.
