England attack coach Brian Smith admits the lure of international rugby while working alongside Martin Johnson was impossible to resist.

Smith has been set the challenge of transforming England's pedestrian back line into a unit capable of penetrating Test rugby's meanest defences.

The Australian's impact at London Irish enhanced his reputation and he insists once England came knocking he could not resist their approach.

"I enjoyed what I did at London Irish but I recognise England have been very good to me, both as a student and professional rugby coach," he said.

"A chance to be a part of this coaching team is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I was quite excited about being sounded out.

"Johnno's standing in the game is very significant in this country.

"If you're going to hitch a wagon to anyone, then this is a regime that I'd like to be a part of."

England's 32-strong elite player squad has gathered for a training camp this week and Smith is confident he has the playing resources to make an impact.

But the former Exiles director of rugby believes a consistent selection policy is also key to producing a successful team.

"There are a lot of good players. One of the problems is that countries in that situation can churn and burn through players," he said.

"It's been my experience in the past players evolve through repeat selection. We have 32 players.

"We know who they are and there is a pecking order with players behind them.

"Some aren't the finished article and some are world class. It's a very talented squad."

One of the tasks facing Smith is to send is troops into battle with an alternative plan for when their attack fails to deliver the expected results.

"There is a lot of clarity about how we're playing. We need a plan A and plan B," he said.

"The boys need something to go to if things aren't going well.

"We have good players and they need the freedom to play, but they also need a framework so that when things are tough and loose people know how to get back on board."

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