STUART Lancaster has been appointed the new, permanent England coach this afternoon.

Lancaster led England to the runners-up spot in the recent Six Nations tournament, during his spell as interim coach of the national side.

The 42-year-old, who takes over from Martin Johnson, captained Leeds until his retirement in 2000 and was appointed head of the Leeds RFU academy a year later – a position he held for five years.

Lancaster became director of rugby at Leeds Carnegie in 2006 and led them to promotion to the Premiership in 2006-07, before being appointed the head of the RFU’s elite player development in March 2008.

Two years later he became manager of England Saxons and, a year later won the Churchill Cup with the team, before being announced England interim coach after the country’s dismal performance in the World Cup.

“I am immensely honoured and proud to accept this role,” said Lancaster.

“I know what supporting England means to millions of people. I’m privileged to be involved.”