RFU SET FOR CONTRACT SHOWDOWN WITH PLAYERS

The Rugby Football Union could be on course for another showdown with players who have yet to sign contracts because of concerns over personal image rights. Former England international Paul Ackford, writing in the Sunday Telegraph reports that senior players will lock horns with the Rugby Football Union over a new Six Nations contract with less than five weeks to go before England's first match. The England squad want to be paid for the use of their image and likeness by sponsors and that stance could bring them into conflict with the RFU, who, in the past, have entered into deals with sponsors where those rights have been handed over.