Vickery pulls no punches

Phil Vickery laid down a brutal warning to England's young guns that they face a daunting future on the international stage unless they start improving fast.

The former captain admitted England had hit rock bottom with last weekend's record 42-6 defeat to South Africa at Twickenham and he made no attempt to sugar-coat the performance.

"It is all very well saying to guys it will not always be like this in international rugby - because it will be if you don't do something about it. It will only get worse," said Vickery.

"You can't hide from what is around you. You have to make sure they learn from it.

"I do think there is a resolve in the team. I think they will learn a huge amount from last week - but they have to learn fast."

England wrap up the most demanding international series possible on Saturday when New Zealand, the best team in world rugby, roll into Twickenham.

Vickery continued: "We are underdogs, it is a fact. No-one can defend last weekend's scoreline. What are we going to do to make it better?

"The players have to ask themselves: 'Are you fit enough and strong enough? Do you want it enough? Is your skill level high enough?'

"You have to challenge yourself. One of the greatest attributes I can give to the New Zealand team is that they are the benchmark.

"That is where you want to be. They are relentless in their pursuit for excellence and it is a great example for us all."