Wilko says Hodgson/Barkley criticism unfair

JONNY WILKINSON has defended his England team-mates after an inability to convert their goal-kicking chances was instrumental as the team slumped to defeat against France.

Charlie Hodgson and Olly Barkley missed six penalties between them in contrast to Dimitri Yachvili, who kicked six penalties from seven as France wiped out a 17-6 interval deficit.

However, Wilkinson defended the pair saying the criticism levelled at them was unwarranted.