Martin Johnson once left an opponent gushing after a punch-up (Image: Getty)
Former head coach Martin Johnson once punched an opposition player so hard he “opened him like a zip.” That’s according to ex-England team-mate David Flatman, who had a front-row seat to the unfastening.
Leicester Tigers legend Johnson is remembered by many for his three-year stint in charge of England, where he rarely lost his temper in view of the public. But the same can’t be said for the retired lock’s persona during his playing career.
‘Johnno’ appeared as the inaugural guest on the first episode of the podcast alongside Flatman and Tom Shanklin, as well as -winners Lawrence Dallaglio and Katy Daley-McLean. And ‘Flats’ was very selecting in his choice of anecdote to introduce the towering presence.
“We’ve gone large. Lawrence has made the call, so it happened,” said Flatman as he introduced the podcast’s maiden guest. “Shanks, we were playing against Leicester for Saracens, and he [Johnson] punched our mate Robbie Russell.
“Opened him up like a zip. Johnno got a yellow card, sure, but so did Robbie – for getting chinned.”
Australia-born Russell will have undoubtedly felt some resentment that he too was punished purely for getting clocked in the cheek. The former Scotland hooker was left with a gash to the side of his face as a result, while Johnson emerged looking squeaky clean.
At least visually, that is. The five-time Premiership-winner was served a three-week ban for his blow on the Sarries star, but his reputation clearly recovered considering he was made England boss just six years later.
Johnson was an intimidating presence at the peak of his powers (Image: Getty)
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
There was a lot left to be desired from Johnson’s stint as England coach, which came to a halt following their quarter-final exit at the 2011 Rugby World Cup. The Red Rose won 10 of their last 13 games under Johnson but finished second-best to a France side they’d defeated at Twickenham earlier that year.
Fast-forward to today, and England could perhaps use some of that fire in Saturday’s opener away to . Steve Borthwick’s men have their work cut out for them beginning their tournament against the titleholders, though England managed to beat Ireland at the Aviva Stadium when Johnson took his team there nearly 14 years ago.
That being said, a little more discipline than he showed Russell may go a long way. Johnson remains an England icon despite a mixed spell in charge of his old team, showing more restraint as a coach than he managed on the field first-hand.