The chief executive of the Rugby Football Union (RFU), Ian Ritchie, insists there will be no knee-jerk reaction to England's embarrassing early exit from the Rugby World Cup.

Stuart Lancaster's men can no longer qualify from Pool A after following up a defeat to Wales with a 33-13 loss against Australia at Twickenham on Saturday.

England are the first World Cup hosts to be knocked out at the pool stage and uncertainty surrounds the futures of Lancaster - who signed a new long-term contract only 12 months ago - and his coaching staff.

Yet in a statement on the England Rugby website on Sunday, Ritchie underlined the importance of the RFU taking appropriate time to review the team's failure.

"Both as RFU chief executive and as a lifetime supporter of the England team I speak for so many by saying how disappointed we are at the losses to Wales and Australia, where hopes were so high that we could achieve something special," said Ritchie.

"I would like to stress, however, that there will be no hasty reaction to England's performance in this Rugby World Cup.

"Lessons will be learnt from the results and they will be found in a calm, clear, rational and thorough manner in the fullness of time post tournament."

Ritchie said the RFU would maintain their focus on "delivering the most inspiring and successful Rugby World Cup ever ... achieving a lasting legacy for the sport, while growing rugby in England."

RFU chairman Bill Beaumont, meanwhile, suggested England's players would be feeling more pain than anyone at this time.

The former England skipper added: "While acknowledging the deep disappointment of all connected with rugby union in England and especially our incredibly supportive fans, results in any major sporting contest are unpredictable, no matter the effort or endeavour involved.

"I am sure that our loyal England supporters will stay behind the team and their management as they head into the match with Uruguay [next weekend]. 

"This is a group of young men who care deeply about representing their nation and their fans. Nobody will be hurting more than they are and, while they will expect an inevitable reaction, knowing that the rugby family is still there for them will really matter."