Andy Robinson has reluctantly stood down as England head coach today after losing the support of the Rugby Football Union management board.

England lost three of their four Autumn internationals, taking Robinson's record to 13 defeats in 22 games in charge since he was appointed to succceed Clive Woodward two years ago.
   
Robinson, Woodward's assistant when England won the World Cup in 2003, had said repeatedly he would not resign, despite widespread calls in the media for him to stand down.

"It is with regret that I have agreed a parting of the ways with the RFU and I will cease to be England head coach with immediate effect," said Robinson in a statement on the RFU website.
   
"In the last 48 hours, I have been advised by senior colleagues that those who have governance over me - the RFU Management Board - do not, and will not, continue to support me as England head coach.
   
Rob Andrew, director of elite rugby, said on the RFU website: "On behalf of the RFU I'm announcing that, further to recent England results and performances, Andy Robinson OBE is standing down from the position of head coach with immediate effect.

"The announcement is made with a great deal of regret as Andy has made a significant contribution to England during the six years he has been involved with the side." 
 
Robinson wanted to continue as head coach despite England's appalling slump but the RFU forced him out by issuing an ultimatum - resign or be removed.

His position became untenable after presiding over the disastrous autumn series which consisted of defeats to New Zealand, Argentina and South Africa.

Before Robinson stood down he made sure to take a parting shot at the RFU, insisting their current approach to the sport at the elite level is "not working".

"Following last Saturday's match versus South Africa my position remained that I was confident that I would coach the England team through to a successful World Cup in 2007, not withstanding the setbacks that we have had through the autumn.

"It is my understanding that I had, and still have, the support of the England players and the England management team.

"For six years I have been proud to work with some outstanding people in the England team management and in the England squad," added Robinson.

"They all understand the responsibility, sacrifice and hard work that it takes for England to win. I would like to thank each of them for their support and professionalism throughout.

"On the occasion of my departure I leave very much hoping that rather than sacrificing any more England victories and sacrificing more quality coaches, that the professional game in this country admits that the current structure and system for developing elite rugby players and performance in the international arena is not working.

"If that is so then my successor may have a sensible platform from which to meet everyone's expectations for England success."