Flanker James Haskell believes that the professionalism of England's players should not be questioned after their World Cup quarter-final exit to France.

A series of incidents have marred the side's stay in New Zealand, but the 26-year-old claims that they have taken the tournament seriously.

"I think we have been as professional as we could've been," he said. "I think the guys have worked as hard as they can. Unfortunately there's been a couple of incidents that have caught the headlines - other teams have enjoyed what New Zealand has to offer and seem to have done it in relative peace.

"I think people have to realise we're all professional sportsmen. We all work as hard as we possibly can, everyone has that desire to put that shirt on and do well and no-one was here on a jolly."

Meanwhile, coach Martin Johnson has refused to comment on his future in charge of the side after the defeat.