De Beer backing Viljoen

Viljoen (centre) has been criticised at home

BBC Sport Online exclusive by Jonathon Moore

Former Springbok fly-half Jannie De Beer has pleaded with the South African public to give national team boss Harry Viljoen more time - win or lose against England.

Viljoen has stated that his job will be on the line if his side are defeated at Twickenham on Saturday.

South Africa have enjoyed mixed fortunes since the former Western Province coach took over in October 2000, winning just six of their 13 matches.

I met the guys on Monday and they know that they'll have to have a huge game

Jannie De Beer

But De Beer is confident that South African rugby is as strong as ever.

"We are not in crisis. We have so many quality players and it's important we give some of those who are untested a chance," he told BBC Sport Online.

"After losing to France 10-20 the guys were very disappointed - and understandably so - and that puts pressure on the players and management."

De Beer likened the Springboks' current situation to that of England when Clive Woodward became coach.

"With a new coach and new ideas it always takes time," he said.

'No crisis'

"When Woodward took over the England role it was exactly the same.

"So there's no crisis. They are very competent players and I just hope they do well on Saturday."

De Beer, who notched up 34 points - including a world record five drop goals - against England during the 1999 World Cup quarter-final, said it was vital that the Springbok team were given room to create their own success.

De Beer in action for the Springboks

"As everyone know the culture in South Africa is that rugby is a religion and it's tough," he said.

"If the team doesn't perform then people start asking questions. The public know we have good players so the pressure to win is constant.

"The team are struggling with continuity at the moment, however. But it takes time to gel."

Despite the recent lack of success, the Saracens fly-half issued a warning to England ahead of Saturday's game.

"I met the guys on Monday and they know that they'll have to have a huge game," he said.

"But, strangely, it always seems to be the underdog who wins when England play South Africa.

"In 1999 we were expected to lose and it's been the same for a number of years.

"When England tied the series in South Africa that was unexpected as was England 's win at Twickenham in 1998 when we I think were the better side going into the match.

"That's why I'm so excited about Saturday - because something unexpected always happens when we play England."