REPORTS | Wasps star earmarked for coaching job by RFU

Johnson, who narrowly missed out on a place in the 2011 Springbok World Cup squad, was one of the first players reported to be on new Bulls director of rugby Jake White’s most wanted list.

However, Johnson declined the opportunity because it would cause too much disruption to his family to move back to South Africa.

His only three Test matches came under Peter de Villiers in the 2011 Tri-Nations but he was not considered for the squad to go to New Zealand that year despite being one of the in-form forwards at the time.

The 33-year-old has a year left on his contract with Wasps but has also been earmarked for coaching a job with the English Rugby Football Union (RFU) once he calls time on his playing career. It is unclear at this stage what the specifics of the role might be.

Described by the club as ‘a real coup’ and 'deadly finisher' when the winger joined from relegated Newcastle Falcons last summer. However, it appears that the 35-year-old, who has been a prolific try scorer throughout his career, is finally starting to slow down. He didn't cross the whitewash in his six Premiership outings for Quins this season.

This loan move seemed to make perfect sense, but due to a number of factors it hasn't really worked out. Undergoing knee surgery immediately following the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Sharks fans didn't see him debut until a 30 minute cameo against Saracens in early February. Recalled by Eddie Jones for the Six Nations after making just one start for Sale, his loan expires on June 30. After that date, he is due to return to Newcastle and can no longer play for Sale if the season were to be extended into July.

One of only 20 players to win the Rugby World Cup twice, the prop arrived at Franklin's Gardens with a degree of expectation on his shoulders. It was hoped he'd bring his impressive strength and scrummaging technique to the pack at Franklin’s Gardens - but he's made just four starts. Saints fans will be hoping for much more in the second half of the season.

More disappointing than bad. The speedster, who went viral as a youngster for his four tries at Twickenham in the NatWest Schools Cup, joined Bristol last summer but left the Premiership side with immediate effect in February. He's since revealed he's taken the decision to pursue other opportunities outside of professional rugby.

London Irish again wasting money. They parted with £450,000 per season to land the experienced Ireland international. Due to a hip injury, the back-rower made just one appearance in a 39-0 defeat against Sale Sharks before the league was suspended. Sometimes signing even the best players doesn't work out.