England split over pay wrangle

The fall-out between England's leading rugby union players and management could have far-ranging repercussions, according to ex-England captain Will Carling.

Speaking exclusively to BBC Radio 5 Live, Carling said the strike had been a mistake and warned that relations between the pitch and the boardroom had hit a new low.

"There is more to this than meets the eye," Carling said. "It's not just about money.

The problem now is that some very strong words have been said behind closed doors

  Will Carling

"I think, sadly, there is an awful lot of mistrust between the committee and the players and that rugby union is still a sport that is trying to come to terms with professionalism.

"There are faults on both sides and I think there has to be a shift in mindset both parties."

Carling admitted the stand-off will have done little to enhance the players' cause in the minds of the fans.

"It doesn't look good," Carling said. "And I think PR-wise the players could have done more.

"Unfortunately, the issue of money will now be debated forevermore, but we shouldn't underestimate what wearing an England shirt means to the players.

"The problem now is that some very strong words have been said behind closed doors."

England team manager Clive Woodward had walked out of a meeting with the players, describing their actions as "one of the saddest days in the history of the game in England."

"I feel betrayed and let down," he said on Tuesday. "They've made a huge mistake."

According to Carling, Woodward's outspoken attack on the players may produce tension in the months to come.

"Woodward made his feelings very plain," he said. "Emotions are running very high, so that could take some getting over.

"It's very sad this has come now and in retrospect the players could have timed it better."