Barkley made his England debut against the USA in 2001

England's Olly Barkley has reacted angrily after being dropped to the bench for Saturday's second Test against New Zealand in Christchurch.

Barkley has been replaced at inside centre by Jamie Noon following last week's 37-20 defeat by the All Blacks.

"I was very annoyed. It wasn't an easy day for anyone," said Barkley. "They have gone for a different approach in midfield and that means I miss out.

"I am not particularly happy and I have not taken it particularly well."

Charlie Hodgson also lost his place at fly-half as part of six changes, five in the backs, for the second Test.

It's frustrating to have lost out during the Six Nations and then come on tour where we haven't had long to prepare Olly Barkley

New Zealand successfully attacked the midfield channel between Hodgson and Barkley last weekend, but the Gloucester back defended their partnership.

"There were various question marks over the way Charlie and I defended," Barkley, 26, said.

"The coaches were keen to get a unit in there that know each other, such as Flood and Noon.

"When things go wrong defensively it is a collective effort, particularly from phase play when you are all involved.

"I chatted to the coaches and, shall we say, we had a decent talk about what went wrong. I aired my views as well.

"They have made the decision and I have to live with it. But because I have to live with it, doesn't mean I am particularly happy about it."

Barkley had only just reclaimed the number 12 jersey after missing the Six Nations because of assault charges, which were later dropped.

The Gloucester player was looking forward to re-establishing his place in the England side on the tour of New Zealand and believes the selectors should have kept faith in the midfield line-up.

"It is frustrating to have lost out during the Six Nations and then to come on a tough tour where we haven't had very long to prepare," said Barkley.

606: DEBATE Fair play to Olly - it seems to me every time a player makes a mistake in this area they are dropped WLB

"The midfield who play best are the guys that people stick with regardless of a couple of bad games.

"I am not saying you have to keep me in. I am saying that midfields need time to function, they need time to be together.

"But I honestly do understand the coaches don't have the time to have that security to stick with a team. Their job is hard as well."