We needed more time in the pub, says England player Billy Vunipola

Billy Vunipola after England's loss to Wales. Photo / Getty Images

Billy Vunipola insists England's squad should have spent more time bonding over a drink in the pub as he reflects on the hosts' Rugby World Cup demise.

Vunipola was ruled out of the final two Pool A matches against Australia and Uruguay because of a knee injury, but spent the entire European summer with the squad at their Surrey training base.

As details emerge of a day spent riot training with the Metropolitan Police in early July to improve the squad's organisational and communication skills, Vunipola has said he believes the hosts would have benefited from more socialising.

"It's a tough 12 weeks that we spent together. The best way to bond is when you go out to the pub, have a drink and break down barriers," Vunipola told BBC Radio 5 Live on Sunday.

"You want to get to know someone on a deeper level than that because when you are on the pitch, it helps.

"I say that because when we play at (English Premiership side) Saracens that's what we do. It might look like a fun, jolly time, but we build our memories together, we build bonds and bridges."

Vunipola said it was an aspect that was somewhat missing from England's campaign.

"I got to know a lot of people very well, I would have liked to get to know them better, not only that, but their family and friends," he said.

"That's something that's very important to me, I'm a very emotional player and I like to know who my teammate is on a deeper level than just who his name is and who he plays for."

- AAP