STUART LANCASTER has effectively been given only three games to stake his claim as England’s permanent head coach.

The Rugby Football Union says it expects to have identified its first-choice candidate by the end of the Six Nations, a timescale which would appear to reduce Lancaster’s chances unless the caretaker’s new-look squad makes a good start against Scotland, Italy and Wales.

Twickenham officials admit they have been impressed by Lancaster’s words and deeds since he was installed as interim coach last month but it seems Nick Mallett and Wayne Smith are still their preferred options to take England through to the 2015 World Cup.

Had the union ruled out any appointment before mid-April, it would have indicated a desire to retain Lancaster for the long haul. The situation might change if England were to win the Grand Slam but the RFU is clearly anxious not to be accused of indecision. It has been confirmed its new chief executive, Ian Ritchie, will start work at Twickenham on February 27th and will chair the five-man panel which will determine who should succeed Martin Johnson.

Selecting a new head coach will be Ritchie’s immediate priority. “It is envisaged that by the end of the Six Nations we should have a good idea who the preferred candidate is,” said the interim chief executive, Stephen Brown.

Brown, who will revert to his role as chief financial officer following Ritchie’s arrival from the All England Club, also confirmed the headhunters Odgers had been engaged to draw up a long list for the head-coach role. The job is being advertised but the closing date for applicants is January 31st, allowing little time for Lancaster to decide whether he wishes to be considered. “He has to make a decision whether he wishes to be considered,” stressed Brown. “The door is not shut, it’s open.”

In Lancaster’s favour is the positive start he has made, both in selecting fresh players and setting out to change the culture. “Stuart’s made a fantastic impression and, if he chooses to apply, I’m sure he’d be given every consideration,” said Brown, stressing the RFU’s desire to rid themselves of the negative perceptions which attached themselves to Johnson’s England during the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

Brown added that, if necessary, England would tour South Africa in June under temporary management if the permanent coach was unable to start before next season.

GuardianService