When Martin Johnson announced his retirement from international rugby last month, the tributes to this remarkable England captain were numerous and the image of Johnno holding the Webb Ellis Cup aloft when England became the world champions in November is one which nobody will forget.

This was the pinnacle of an England career which is redolent with records. The most capped lock captained the team which became the first European side to secure back to back away victories against major southern hemisphere sides and after securing the Grand Slam. This followed an autumn 2002 hat trick of victories at home against New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.

The pivotal partnership of head coach Clive Woodward and captain Martin Johnson lasted almost five years, Johnno taking up the reins against the Netherlands in Hudderfield in November 1998, standing in for an injured Lawrence Dallaglio, who resumed the role for the England RBS 6 Nations match against Italy this month.

Said Clive Woodward, “I can’t speak highly enough of Martin. He has made an outstanding contribution for his country both as a player and as captain on and off the pitch. He stands down now having achieved everything there is to achieve as an England player and I hope he will be involved in some other capacity in the international team in the future. I wish him all the best.”

With Clive Woodward as head coach, Johnson earned 54 of his 84 international caps, 39 as captain, winning all but five of the games he led.

Commenting on Martin Johnson’s contribution to the sport in England, RFU President Robert Horner said, “Not only has Martin been an inspiration to his fellow England players but also to every schoolboy who dreams one day of following in his footsteps and captaining his club and country.”