Lions tackle Woodward issue

Woodward has not yet signed a contract with the Lions

Sir Clive Woodward's position as Lions coach will come under scrutiny at an emergency meeting in Dublin on Tuesday.

But Lions chief Bill Beaumont said he thought Woodward's position is safe.

"It is a case of clearing the air as far as I am concerned," said Beaumont. "My own view is that Clive will be taking the squad to New Zealand."

Last week Woodward resigned as England coach less than a year after winning the World Cup but will lead the Lions on tour in the summer of 2005.

He also revealed he is planning to move into football after the Lions tour.

Some members of the Lions management committee are thought to be concerned that Woodward might not be fully committed to the tour.

I think he definitely has to do the Lions job Wales coach Mike Ruddock

"Clive's position is an agenda item because those on the committee read newspapers, hear stories and need to know what is going on," said Beaumont.

"Clive has not signed a contract with us but we shook hands with him and it was clear from his remarks last week that he remains totally dedicated to the Lions.

"I will be speaking to Clive before the meeting but he has already assured me that he will not be taking on any commitments which would interfere with his job of preparing the Lions."

Woodward has also received the backing of Wales coach Mike Ruddock.

"I think he definitely has to do the Lions job," said Ruddock.

"I don't know Clive too well but we texted him messages of support when he got the Lions position.

"It remains that everyone involved in the Welsh team wishes Clive the best of luck for the Lions tour."

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