Why is the RFU so disturbed by English players signing for French clubs? This will be a great experience for many of these players and ought to make them better equipped to play for England (as in the case of Andy Goode).

Does playing for Inter-Milan disqualify David Beckham from playing for England? Of course not. At the same time opportunities will increase for young English players trying to make their way in a Premiership already overloaded with non-English players.

And it is about time that the RFU set about making opportunities for English youth throughout the length and breadth of England. Let us say at Blaydon (not so far for Rob Andrew to go; I wonder sometimes what subject he read at Cambridge), Cullompton, Cinderford, Drybrook, and Berry Hill.  It is time for the RFU to look beyond the public schools and foreign imports.

Meanwhile a rampant Cinderford RFC have moved up to fifth place in National League 2.  – Gerald Morgan, Dub­lin.