Jason Robinson

Former England star Jason Robinson believes England can regain their place at the top of the world game under Martin Johnson.

A surprise return to the World Cup final last year aside, England have endured a lean time since winning that tournament five years ago but Robinson believes Johnson is the right man to oversee a revival.

Robinson, speaking as he received his OBE at Buckingham Palace, said: "We have got exciting players for the future. Under Martin Johnson we are going to see some different things, some different ways. Hopefully he can be successful but it does take time."

He added: "Unfortunately we are not as patient as we should be. We want young players to come through but at the same time we want results and sometimes they don't always go hand in hand.

"But given time I am sure we will see England back up there."

Robinson was given his OBE for services to sport after being named in the New Year's Honours List. He was last at the palace to receive an MBE along with the rest of England's World Cup winners four years ago.

Robinson made his name in rugby league with Wigan and Great Britain in the 1990s after being spotted as a youngster playing for Leeds-based club Hunslet Parkside.

He switched codes in 2000 and went on to represent England 51 times and play on two British and Irish Lions tours. He retired after last year's World Cup.

He said: "I had an outstanding career and I am grateful to everyone who has helped me along the way. I shall now look forward to other things in life.

"When I was running around the streets in Leeds I did not think I would be here for a second time collecting an OBE."