The Rugby Football Union has hit back at former chief executive Francis Baron's criticism of the organisation.

In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Baron called for acting chief executive Martyn Thomas and five other board members to be charged with bringing the game into disrepute.

Baron said that the six officials should face disciplinary hearings for "gross mismanagement" and overseeing a "complete collapse in governance standards".

"The Rugby Football Union is disappointed by the continued criticism by the former Chief Executive, Francis Baron, whose latest remarks contain allegations that are totally unfounded and unworthy of a former Chief Executive with 12 years distinguished service," the RFU hit back in a statement.

The RFU Board and RFU Council will meet on Friday (September 2) to discuss the release of Judge Jeff Blackett's controversial review of the organisation which was carried out after John Steele's departure from the RFU.