Vickery ups the ante
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.
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.
England wrap up the most demanding international series possible on Saturday when New Zealand, the best team in world rugby, roll into Twickenham.
“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.
“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.”
Vickery's challenge was coupled with a message about what he believes this England team can achieve – and his own career is proof positive.
Vickery came through England's harrowing 1998 'Tour from Hell' and a series of debilitating back injuries to win the 2003 World Cup and captain his country to second place in 2007.
“At the moment everything is doom and gloom and a little bit of a noose around the neck – but a lot of teams have been in this situation,” he said.
“In 2002 we beat South Africa 53-3. Six years later they are world champions. Look what can be achieved. It will be a long, hard road – but it can be achieved.”