While England picked up their first RBS 6 Nations title in eight years, Hape and Tindall were widely criticised for the lack of flair in midfield, and the former Quins stalwart believes it is time for the England supremo to wield the axe.

But although Leicester starlet Manu Tuilagi is the obvious option to bring some verve to the England team, Winterbottom believes Johnson has missed a trick by not looking elsewhere in the Premiership.

“I’m still surprised that the likes of Brad Barritt and Billy Twelvetrees weren’t included,” said Winterbottom who is currently cycling from John o' Groats to Land's End for Help for Heroes.

“Hape and Tindall are both quite similar players and it didn’t really work during the Six Nations.

“With the pace available to England in the back three, you really want someone in there who can get the ball out to them.

“Ashton, Foden and Cueto are all great runners with the ball and it’s a waste not to use them.

“We’ve got a great pair of half-backs who can provide quick ball, and the Hape-Tindall partnership is holding us back at the moment.”

But while Winterbottom feels Johnson still has work to do to perfect his World Cup backline, he believes England are still capable of causing a few shocks in New Zealand.

And with a potential quarter-final against France followed by a likely semi-final against Australia, the 51-year-old admits England’s recent wins over both sides could give them a psychological edge.

“We’ve obviously had some good results against both France and Australia in the last couple of years which could play in their favour,” added Winterbottom.

“World Cup matches are often decided on very small margins, but I think if England can get to a semi-final that will be regarded as a decent effort.

“Then again last time nobody expected them to reach the final and they have definitely had better preparation this time around so who knows how they will get on.”

Tickets for the final of the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Premiership Rugby 7s Series at the Twickenham Stoop are available through Ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.co.uk, on 0844 847 2492 or can be purchased at the ground on the night.