Former Italy coach Nick Mallett has ruled himself out of the running to be the next England rugby manager.

Coach Martin Johnson resigned from the post on Wednesday.

The 55-year-old had been heavily-tipped to take over from the World Cup-winning captain.

"The RFU contacted me earlier this week to enquire about my availability for the position, should Martin Johnson resign," said Mallett in a statement. "I had previously expressed my interest in the position publicly and was interested to hear what RFU representatives had to say.

"After mulling it over for a few days and discussing the opportunity with close friends and family, I have decided that I will not be making myself available for the position and I have disclosed this to the RFU."

The former Springbok had been in charge of Italy since 2007.