Sir Clive makes contact with his Lions

British and Irish Lions coach Sir Clive Woodward has sent 140 elite players the first part of a motivational dossier ahead of next year's tour to New Zealand.

The former England boss plans six further dossiers as he whittles down the squad to 44, but the first package simply reminded the lucky recipients that 2005 was a Lions year.

The dossier - entitled 'The Power of Four' in reference to the four Home Unions from which the touring party will be selected - included a Christmas card adorned with motivational slogans such as "How do you want to be remembered?" and "Who says we can't do it?"

The players on Woodward's mailing list are thought to have included Martin Johnson, Lawrence Dallaglio and Neil Back.

The inclusion of the former England triumvirate seems to suggest that the coach is prepared to consider players who will not be playing for their countries during the 2005 Six Nations Championship.

The next six instalments of the dossier are expected to be sent to the players over the coming months before the squad is chosen for the three-match series against New Zealand in June and July.