The Career of Martin Johnson

Martin Johnson, England's most successful captain, had a colourful career. Johnson first started playing rugby at the age of twelve for his school, Wellingborough. He then went on to play for Leicester Tigers from 1987-2005. Johnson also had a stint in New Zealand between 1989-1990. Getting capped for the New Zealand u21s on a tour of Australia and going up against John Eales. During his teen years, Johnson also played American football Leicester Panthers.

Martin Johnson, England's most successful captain, had a colourful career. Johnson first started playing rugby at the age of twelve for his school, Wellingborough. He then went on to play for Leicester Tigers from 1987-2005. During this period, he had a stint in New Zealand between 1989-1990. Getting capped for the New Zealand u21s on a tour of Australia and going up against John Eales. During his teen years, Johnson also had a brief stint playing American football Leicester Panthers.

Johnson made his international rugby debut in 1992 against France, and was part of the English team that won the World Cup in 2003. He also became the first captain to retain the Six Nations Championship in 2004.

Johnson's record as a player speaks for itself. Johnson won the Grand Slam twice with England (1991 and 1992). Johnson played a total of eighty eight times for England and scored twice. Had Johnson got to 132 England caps he would have likely scored a third. Johnson was also a British and Irish Lions legend, being the first player to captain the Lions on two tours (1997 and 2005).

After his playing career, Johnson turned to management. He was appointed as Director of Rugby for Leicester Tigers in 2009. In 2011, he was named England's Head Coach. However, after a disappointing World Cup campaign in New Zealand, Johnson was sacked from his role.

Despite his controversial departure from the England coaching set-up, Martin Johnson will always be remembered as one of the greats of English rugby. His record as a player and captain is unsurpassed and he will always be seen as a true icon of the game.