Rugby Football Union chief executive Ian Ritchie has claimed that "not all" of the England players wanted head coach Stuart Lancaster to leave his role.

The 46-year-old stepped down from his position this afternoon after England's failed World Cup campaign on home turf.

The Red Rose, who finished second in the Six Nations four times during Lancaster's four-year spell, were not able to progress past the group stage of the tournament.

Ritchie revealed in a press conference that an extensive review into England's World Cup campaign was carried out, and several players gave their views.

When asked by reporters if the entire team wanted Lancaster to leave, Ritchie said: "No, not all the players wanted Stuart Lancaster to go. There were a whole variety of opinions. It is important that the players' views are heard and put into perspective.

"You need to get the best possible coach - this is not a matter of financial considerations, it is about getting the best possible coach for England and we will do that without inhibition."

The search for a new coach will not be limited to English-born candidates.