SIR BOBBY ROBSON yesterday saluted England Rugby Union star Jonny Wilkinson and admitted: "I wish we had more like him in football.''

Newcastle United manager Robson, who has had to contend with controversial off-field incidents involving some of his own players, sees Wilkinson as the perfect sporting role model.

Robson declared: "Some of today's professional footballers could do a lot worse than follow his example on and off the field.

"I think Jonny is an ideal role model for everyone in sport, especially youngsters. I wish we had more like him in football.

"I've seen him play for Newcastle Falcons and I've watched him on television playing for England.

"With our connections with Newcastle Falcons, he uses our indoor training facilities.

"I've watched him training and I've watched him practising his kicking. He spends a lot of time kicking. You can't but be impressed by his dedication and patience.

"Jonny's a really quiet, unassuming sort of guy who prefers a low profile and goes about his business in a very professional way. He behaves impeccably. His parents must be very proud of him.

"He's as devoted to his game as David Beckham is to football. They're similar in some ways and I have to say that I love the TV adverts they both appear in."

Robson marvelled as Wilkinson kicked all England's points in the 24-7 World Cup semi-final victory over France last weekend.

"It was a truly memorable achievement," said Robson. "Left foot, right foot, it didn't seem to make much difference to him.

"He's comfortable with either foot, though he kicks naturally with his left. I think he's got a left foot like Ferenc Puskas! It doesn't get much better than that, does it?

"Even to a rugby layman like me, it's obvious his kicking is going to be crucial in the final against Australia.

"If the team can win drop-goal positions and secure penalties then there's a pretty good chance he'll kick points.

"He's as important to this England team as Gary Lineker was to mine.