RFU criticises England stars

The Rugby Football Union have expressed their 'extreme disappointment' at criticism of England coach Brian Ashton by veteran players Lawrence Dallaglio and Mike Catt.

Dallaglio's 12-year international career is set to end after the body recorded their displeasure at his criticism of coach Brian Ashton.

Dallaglio and Mike Catt lambasted Ashton over a lack of preparation and organisation, even though he led England to the World Cup final.

Catt has since announced his retirement from international rugby but 35-year-old Dallaglio has said he wants to play on.

The Rugby Football Union are conducting a review of England's World Cup performance and have yet to announce whether Ashton will stay on as coach.

But a statement last night read: 'The board recorded their extreme disappointment that two senior players have chosen to criticise publicly members of the England coaching team and disclosed alleged proceedings within England team meetings.

'The long-standing ethos of the game, as well as the custom and practice of the England team meetings, is that they have always been private and confidential.

'It is essential that the fundamental trust between players and coaches, which is critical for any team's success, is not undermined.'

Rob Andrew, the RFU's elite rugby director, has met Dallaglio and Catt and requested copies of their autobiographies.

Dallaglio retired from international rugby in 2004 before reversing his decision the following year. He played every game in England's 2003 World Cup triumph, but was a fringe player in this year's tournament.

Meanwhile, the RFU expressed their pride in England's World Cup performance in their regular monthly meeting today.

The statement continued: 'The RFU management board...congratulated England head coach, Brian Ashton, the England Rugby World Cup squad and the coaching and management team for an excellent RWC campaign and defence of the Webb Ellis Cup won in 2003.

'The RFU and the whole game in England are rightfully proud of their fine, collective performance.

'The review of England's RWC performance is well under way and all 32 RWC squad players and members of the coaching and management team will have an input.'