Saracens to miss Johnson appeal

Saracens have turned down the chance to be represented when England and Leicester captain Martin Johnson appeals against the 35-day ban imposed on him after he was found guilty of foul play.

Johnson goes before a three-man appeals committee in Coventry tomorrow night having been banned for incidents involving Saracens' fly-half Duncan McRae, who is out for two months with cracked ribs, and England prop Julian White in a Tetley's Bitter Cup match last month.

Saracens coach Alan Zondagh gave evidence at the initial hearing and said today: "The facts have been given by us and it is now up to the panel."

Johnson and Leicester believe there is a strong case for the ban to be reduced and Leicester chief executive Peter Wheeler said: "We are trying to get some fairness for Martin."

McRae has said he is amazed that Johnson does not simply serve out the ban.

Leicester have already decided that whatever happens tomorrow, Johnson will not play in their Tetley's Bitter Cup semi-final against Harlequins at The Stoop on Saturday.

David Wilson, Quins' Australian back-row forward, has recovered from a rib injury and should play.

Wilson, the world's most capped flanker has missed the last two games but should join Roy Winters and Scottish international Eric Peters in a reshaped back row.