Johnson's joy at deal for stars

England's top players have agreed a new four-year commercial deal that will incorporate the next World Cup.

The agreement between Team England Rugby and the Rugby Football Union confirms match fees, win bonuses and image rights.

It has been brokered by the Professional Rugby Players' Association and is a significant step forward in the early days of Martin Johnson's reign as England manager.

He said: "It is important that these off-the-field matters were resolved ahead of this season, so everyone in the squad knows where they stand on commercial issues.

"Everyone supports the agreement and the squad are looking forward to preparing for the Test matches in November."

PRA chief executive Damian Hopley, who negotiated the deal on behalf of Team England, added: "I am delighted that we have a new commercial agreement that will protect the players' interests."