Phil Vickery has warned England¿s youngsters that more pain lies ahead on the international stage unless they shape up fast.
Former skipper calls for response against All Blacks
Phil Vickery has warned England's youngsters that more pain lies ahead on the international stage unless they shape up fast.
The former captain conceded Martin Johnson's new-look side hit rock bottom after last weekend's 42-6 by drubbing by South Africa at Twickenham.
However, things do not get any easier for England as New Zealand - the best team in world rugby - provide the opposition at HQ this week.
And on the eve of the game Vickery has warned his team-mates that their learning curve could prove even more brutal if they don't raise their game against the All Blacks.
"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," he stated.
"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."
However, Vickery still believes that England's current crop are good enough to compete with the best on the international scene, but he recognises that it will take time for the team to develop together.
But he cited the example of current world champions South Africa to illustrate that great things could be achieved with a little patience and determination.
"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 continued.
"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."
