Andy Robinson's failed reign as England boss is lurching towards its conclusion - but there will be no Rugby Football Union announcement about his future until at least tomorrow (Tuesday).

Robinson and senior RFU figures had talks today in the wake of England's miserable autumn Test series when they suffered defeats against New Zealand, Argentina and South Africa.

The RFU revealed little, apart from to confirm a review into the November games started as planned.

It is understood though, that Robinson will not be involved in three days of World Cup meetings, beginning tomorrow in Paris, which he had been due to attend alongside England team manager Vivienne Brown.

Only one question, it seems, remains unanswered. Will Robinson resign or be sacked?

Robinson, in charge for 22 Tests since replacing Sir Clive Woodward two years ago, won just nine of those games, with a catalogue of despair including an England record-equalling seven successive defeats between February and November this year.

But as Robinson prepares for the inevitable, major questions should also be asked of people like RFU chief executive Francis Baron, England captain Martin Corry and his players.

English international rugby resembles a rotting apple at present, and while Robinson might fit the bill as scapegoat in some quarters, it is ludicrous to pin the blame on one individual.

Robinson was repeatedly let down by players who, at times, were unable to pass, catch or kick a rugby ball without blundering during autumn games against South Africa (twice), New Zealand and Argentina.

Baron, meanwhile, was heavily involved in the RFU's decision to keep Robinson seven months ago, when coaching assistants such as Phil Larder, Dave Alred and Joe Lydon were told they no longer had roles with the England squad.

Yes, in the results-driven business of professional sport Robinson was a loser, yet during what appears to have been his last couple of days as England boss, he talked about "not walking away" and "standing my ground".

But matters look to have reached a head today, leaving England in a troubled state just 10 Tests and less than 10 months before launching their World Cup defence against the United States in Lens.

The existing coaching team of Brian Ashton, John Wells and Mike Ford would remain, but RFU elite rugby director Rob Andrew could take a more hands-on role in playing matters.

The RFU though, might turn to one of two favoured overseas candidates in Warren Gatland or Nick Mallett, while England's World Cup-winning captain Martin Johnson and Bristol head coach Richard Hill have also been touted as possible successors to Robinson.

And the England players are likely to still be cursing themselves after letting a 14-3 lead slip against South Africa two days ago in losing 25-14.

"The fundamentals of the game are the set-piece, the passing and the kicking game, and as professional players we should get them right," said Wasps flanker Joe Worsley, as England dusted themselves down following an eighth loss in 2006.

"As for the future, whoever is in charge of the team I will follow them to the hilt. I am just a foot soldier."

And Worsley's back-row colleague Lewis Moody added: "I have been involved with England for seven years and at Leicester for the best part of a decade, and it perhaps hurts more when you have been involved in successful teams.

"Rugby and life does have its highs and lows, and we are currently experiencing a big low."