Mr Motivator wanted for training research

Clive Woodward's coaching brain could go under the microscope as part of a new investigation to discover the tricks of the trainer's trade.

UK Sport's new chairwoman, Sue Campbell, who is responsible for providing the funds and services to help British competitors at next year's Athens Olympics, is keen to pick the brains of the England rugby coach and his football counterpart, Sven-Goran Eriksson.

Campbell, a former netball coach, is keen for Britain's promising trainers to learn from Woodward and Eriksson about the art of motivating teams. "It's about what to say in team talks - and when," she said.

"Not much has been researched or written about coaching but it determines the difference between success and failure. It would be great to get Clive in and find out what did go on and to talk to him and Sven about these issues. We have identified a number of British coaches who have the potential to step up to international level and we want to provide funds and research for them."

Woodward has transformed England since taking over in the autumn of 1997. UK Sport might want to look at the way he helped inspire his struggling team at half-time in their quarter-final against Wales.

The manner in which he has looked after Jonny Wilkinson could also provide important lessons for aspiring coaches.