Rugby: Johnson still captain of England

Martin Johnson will be England's captain against Wales in their Six Nations rugby opener on February 3, the day after he completes a five-week suspension for foul play.

England coach Clive Woodward said yesterday that he never considered dropping the Leicester lock forward or taking the captaincy from him, and will name Johnson in the squad tomorrow.

Johnson was found guilty of punching Saracens prop Julian White, kneeing first five-eighths Duncan McRae and then stamping on him.

"It is a great honour to captain England, and Martin is doing an exceptional job. I am very confident that he will be leading the team out against Wales," Woodward said.