Dallaglio and Catt were heavily criticised for their comments

The two players came under fire for criticism of England head coach Brian Ashton's performance at the World Cup.

An RFU review was instigated but a statement said: "No further action in respect of the books or of their newspaper serialisation will be taken."

A review of squad rules relating to books and newspaper columns continues.

The statement added: "The RFU has taken into account the recent public comments made by both players, who accept that the timing of the release of the books was not ideal."

The governing body added they had also considered "the widespread criticism the players and the book extracts, relating to the RWC 2007, received, especially from the media".

606: DEBATE Should the RFU have punished the pair or are they right to let the matter lie? James S

Catt, 36, has retired from the international game while the 35-year-old Dallaglio has said he would like to continue playing for England.

Both players said that Ashton, who only took charge of England in December 2006 following the unsuccessful reign of Andy Robinson, failed to show enough leadership in France.

Ashton was accused of not imposing himself on his assistant coaches, leaving the players feeling like a "pub team" with no clear idea of what their gameplan was.

Matters came to a head after England's humiliating 36-0 defeat by South Africa, who would later beat them in the final, during the pool stages.

At a meeting with the players Ashton came in for heavy criticism from the squad.

After a series of further meetings, and with a group of senior players increasingly influential, the defending champions undertook a tactical change which helped them battle their way to the final before losing their crown to the Springboks.

Ashton's position as England head coach is currently under review, with a decision on whether he continues in his role to be announced later this year.