The Rugby Football Union has apologised for any offence caused by the use of the Victoria Cross on the new England shirt.

Miniature rubber versions of the medal appear on the shirt in order to "enhance ball control and retention", according to manufacturers Canterbury.

The use of the symbol, which is the the highest honour that members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces can receive, had been the subject of criticism, with the chairman of the Victoria Cross Trust describing the RFU as "disrespectful".

However, the RFU has responded by apologising for any misunderstanding.

"We would like to apologise to those who may have taken offence with our new kit. It was certainly never our intention to cause this," read an official statement. "We are huge supporters of our service personnel and respect and value their support for England.

"We have a longstanding relationship with the Royal British Legion, supporting their poppy appeal at the relevant Twickenham international every year and have helped raise over £2m for them and for other service charities such as Help for Heroes.

"We will be contacting the Victoria Cross Trust and the Victoria Cross and George Cross Association to see how we can also support their worthwhile work going forwards."

England play their first autumn international on November 8 when they host New Zealand at Twickenham Stadium.