“Class in every area” – Sir Clive Woodward names the best rugby player he ever coached 

Woodward, a visionary English rugby icon, epitomizes excellence in coaching and leadership. Born on January 6, 1956, his remarkable journey in sports encompasses both playing and coaching.

His enduring legacy is built on his pivotal role as the head coach of the England rugby team, leading them to an unforgettable World Cup victory in 2003. His innovative strategies, meticulous attention to detail, and commitment to player development revolutionised the sport.

Beyond rugby, Woodward's influence extends to business and leadership, where he imparts his winning principles.

Knighted in 2004, Sir Clive Woodward continues to inspire and shape the future of sports and leadership.

Sourcing several Q&A’s from down the years, we’ve ranked his top five according to the praise he agave them.

Woodward said: "He was a sponge and soaked up every single rugby union skill. By the end he was probably the best kicker out of hand we had, he laid the ball back at rucks perfectly and his tackle technique was perfect. What a player."

DID YOU KNOW? Because Dallaglio's father, Vincenzo, is Italian, and his English-born mother, Eileen, was of Irish descent he was eligible to play for both Italy and Ireland, as well as England

Woodward said: " In the Grand Slam game in 2003, we worked on a plan to man-mark him with three players, so the tackler was not exposed by O’Driscoll’s footwork and pace in a one-on-one situation. That’s how big a threat we believed he was – he needed three men to handle him. Ireland were going for a Grand Slam, but none of the players around Brian were in the same league."

Woodward said: "Inspirational leader, formidable player, competitive in every situation. The example he set in every tight situation in every game led the way."

DID YOU KNOW? A fan of American football, Johnson is a supporter of the San Francisco 49ers and worked as a studio analyst for ITV at Super Bowl XLI,

Woodward said: "Jonny was special and he scared the opposition. Everyone has to pat him on the back. The way he defended and attacked, he was a very special player. All of us involved in that team [in 2003] just felt very lucky and privileged to have had him around at that time."

DID YOU KNOW? He gained a place at the University of Durham, but gave his place up in 1997 to become a professional rugby union player with the Newcastle Falcons

Woodward said: "I rated Hill so highly in an England jersey that he was the only player I never dropped once during my tenure. Different class."

DID YOU KNOW? Often portrayed as the 'silent assassin' at both club and international level, Hill was renowned for his effective and ab