Woodward said he empathised with England coach Ashton

Woodward, who guided England to World Cup glory in 2003, said he empathised with the England hierarchy who want players rested before internationals.

"It's not easy compared to what South Africa, New Zealand and Australia are doing," said Woodward.

"We're trying to beat the Kiwis with one hand behind our backs."

England's elite players are contracted to return to their clubs this week as the Six Nations takes a break, but Rob Andrew, the Rugby Football Union's director of elite rugby, has urged the clubs to rest their internationals.

Martin Johnson played better for England when he had played for his club the week before Sir Clive Woodward

Newcastle chief John Fletcher has opted to leave star fly-half Jonny Wilkinson out of his line-up, despite the Falcons recent slide down the table.

Meanwhile, Leicester coach Richard Cockerill has said that none of his players named in England's team to face Ireland next Saturday will play a full Premiership game this weekend.

Andy Farrell is likely to play for Saracens but Ashton is waiting on confirmation from Wasps, Gloucester, Sale and Bath about their line-ups.

Phil Winstanley of Premier Rugby, the umbrella body for the elite clubs, says "emotional blackmail" is being used by the RFU to ensure England players are rested by clubs.

Premier Rugby also said it had offered to block-release players for last year's Six Nations, and pointed out the clubs' willingness to relax rules on England players appearing in all four autumn Tests.

606 DEBATE: Your views on the club v country row

A Premier Rugby statement said: "It should be noted that 12 months ago the Premiership clubs proposed that players would be blocked for the duration of the Six Nations.

"This proposal was contained in the 'Weston plan' which was rejected by the RFU.

"Where possible, the clubs have provided additional support for England above and beyond the requirements of the EPS (Elite Player Scheme) programme 2003-2007.

It's not about central contracts - that's a red herring Sir Clive Woodward

"However, the integrity of the Premiership and the interests of the clubs and their supporters also need to be protected.

Woodward, who is now director of elite performance at the British Olympic Association, said he was not advocating that every player should be forced to rest, but that the England coach should be given more of a say in what happens.

"It is easy to say 'leave them all out' but you have to treat it on its merits," he said.

"For example, Martin Johnson played better for England when he had played for his club the week before.

"It's not about central contracts - that's a red herring.

"It's about making sure the England coach has the final say. If you have the right man in charge he should make the right decision."