World Cup-winning flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson says former teammate Martin Johnson has all the credentials to be England manager.

Johnson has been talking to elite rugby director Rob Andrew about a possible England role, amid widespread speculation that if the captain of the triumphant 2003 team came on board it would lead to the departure of head coach Brian Ashton.

"I'm sure he (Johnson) would be massively influential, equally as influential as when he was a player," Wilkinson said in a BBC interview.

"He has the qualities inherent in a player that would give him the qualities to be a good coach.

"What's important in terms of a management style is he has the right people with him, the people that can work for him and get his message to the team, a winning one."

Wilkinson, the most prolific points scorer in international rugby, said if Johnson took up a role with England he should be allowed to do things his own way.

"If he chooses to do the job, it's important he's able to influence what he wants because if he can do that it would be a good thing," said the flyhalf.

Captain Phil Vickery also believes Johnson would be the ideal choice to take England forward after a disappointing Six Nations campaign, although he offers a word of caution.

"I hope whatever Martin decides it's on his terms and the role is something he wants to do," Vickery told BBC radio.

"The unfortunate thing for me at the moment is there is a lot of negativity around in the press.

"I don't want to remember Martin Johnson as anything other than a fantastic guy and a great captain. I would hate for people to turn against him."

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