England players slammed for refusing to wear runners-up medals

England's players have come under fire for refusing to wear their runners-up medals after losing the Rugby World Cup final.

England were stunned by South Africa's relentless intensity as their World Cup quest ended with a crushing 32-12 defeat in the final at International Stadium Yokohama.

As the runners-up were given their medals, lock Itoje did not put the silverware around his neck while Kyle Sinckler immediately ripped his off.

Fans watching the final labelled England 'sore losers' and 'unsportsmanlike' for refusing to wear their medals.

One wrote: 'England having a temper tantrum refusing to wear their medals. Pathetic.'

After the match England coach Eddie Jones refused to talk about his future.

"It's not the time to discuss it now," Jones told ITV. "That's for the future but for this team there's no reason why they can't keep developing."

Jones was also reticent to comment on his earlier call for his reign to be judged by his team's performance at the World Cup.

"I don't think that's relevant at this stage," he said. "I'm just thinking about my team, they're hurting badly enough.

"South Africa were worthy winners but I can't fault the effort of my players. They've been outstanding throughout the World Cup and played with a lot of pride and passion.

"Today we just struggled to get on the front foot. They were very aggressive around the ruck and the breakdown and obviously they had dominance in the scrum.

"It wasn't until late in the second half that we got any power in the scrum and it's hard playing off back-foot ball."