Mike Tindall backed by former England players

Mike Tindall has been supported by three former England players after he was dropped from the squad for behaviour at the recent world cup.

The Gloucester centre was also find £25,000 but intends to appeal the RFU's decision.

Will Carling, Martin Bayfield and Austin Healey have since voiced their opinions, criticising the verdict.

"Mike Tindall's punishment is laughable; too severe & far too late. Horse hasn't just bolted, it's died of old age," Bayfield tweeted.

Writing in The Sun, Carling said: "To me, this all smacks of a witch-hunt and I think it very unfair that Mike Tindall has been made a scapegoat for all of England's off-field problems."

Healey added: "25k fine is wrong. Tindall has been made a scapegoat.. he set bad example but ...(Rob) Andrew trying to justify his position."

Tindall's exclusion could spell the end of his 11-year international career. The 33-year-old was part of England's victorious side that won the world cup in 2003.