Both started their playing careers at Magnus School and Kelham Road before going on to have stellar first-class careers, including appearing for England in significant international games which were not deemed a capped match at the time.

However, the RFU have carried out a review to formally recognise 47 players who played for the best available senior team in some matches dating back to 1945.

Many of these fixtures were classified differently under historical regulations, such as ‘Victory’ Internationals, select tour matches or one-off representative games.

John played for England against Italy in 1990 when he was a key forward in the Leicester pack. After he retired from playing, he was a leading coach, including a stint for the England national team.

Andy, who had a career in education, played most of his first-class career at Sale which earned a 1986 appearance for England against Italy.

He was also a substitute for the national team some 21 times when replacements were only allowed for injury. He also played in another six tour games for the national squad.

Congratulations from all at Kelham Road for long overdue recognition. We hope you enjoyed your day at HQ.

Find out more here at these links

John gave a lengthy interview to BBC Radio Leicester
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0nc930c

Andy has done an interview in The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/apr/16/andy-simpson-unluckiest-england-player-cap-rugby-union-test

England rugby ceremony
'I was a little bit miffed for 48 years': Retrospective caps awarded on emotional day at Allianz Stadium | Rugby Football Union