Dan sets good example

ENGLAND women’s coach Phil Neville queried his side’s travel plans after they had to change planes and had less time to prepare than rivals.

But at least FA technical director Dan Ashworth set an admirable example on his US trip to watch Neville’s players in the SheBelieves Cup.

Ashworth flew economy both ways across the Atlantic. Then, when there was only limited space on the official tournament flight from Columbus, Ohio to New York, Ashworth gave up his place so dedicated team personnel could stay together — and took a 10-hour bus ride instead. Only in rugby union could the 50-odd blazers on the RFU council be allowed a two-day jaunt with their partners to Paris for today’s game in France — with Twickenham picking up the tab for travel, hotel and meals plus (mainly drinking) expenses. No wonder those blazers who have entered the ranks of the ‘privilege members’ on leaving the council are moaning about losing their seats in the Royal Box against Ireland next week.