"We would be failing in our duty if we didn't sort out a new four-year deal before the summer tour gets under way," Damian Hopley, chief executive of the Professional Rugby Players Association, told the Evening Standard.

Negotiations to establish new payments to cover match fees and image rights with the Rugby Football Union and the leading Premiership clubs were halted after England's Six Nations defeat by Ireland.

Head coach Clive Woodward, whose contract runs to the 2007 World Cup, made it clear the pay row had been an unwanted distraction, although Hopley insists it was not a major factor in the loss.

With the Six Nations out of the way, Hopley is confident a four-year deal will be struck to ensure the players go on tour knowing exactly what playing for England will be worth in terms of match fees and image rights up to the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

"We are discussing match fees with Premier Rugby, who have a pot of money to share out for international duty and image rights with the RFU," Hopley said.

" Everyone agrees it is vital we come to an agreement and I am confident this will happen. I don't believe the issues were a major distraction before the Irish game and the players have dealt with much bigger problems without letting it affect their form."

He said a four-year deal was necessary to allow every player who comes into the England team to know exactly what they will be entitled to. "We don't want any more grey areas," he added.

AFP - 2004.