The Rugby Football Union scaled back psychological support for the England men’s team at this year’s World Cup in France.

England captain Owen Farrell is taking a break from international rugby “to prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being,” club side Saracens announced on Wednesday.

In a statement on Wednesday, English Premiership club Saracens said the 32-year-old would continue to captain and play for them. "Owen Farrell has decided to take a break from international rugby in order to prioritise his and his family's mental well-being,

Owen Farrell is confident that protecting his mental health over his short-term international future will help extend his England career. Farrell on Wednesday night became the first top England player in the professional era to put mental health ahead of immediate Test ambitions,

Owen Farrell decided to step back from England duties to protect his and his family’s mental health after the pressure of international captaincy, including being booed by his own fans, became overbearing.

Steve Borthwick ‘fully behind’ Owen Farrell’s break from international rugby - The England captain has decided to prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being.

In a statement, Farrell's club Saracens said his decision had been made "in order to prioritise his and his family's mental well-being".