An uncomfortable-looking Wilkinson told a new conference shortly after arriving at Heathrow airport: "I want to continue being myself. I'm going to do exactly the same things I did before I went on tour.

"I'm after a bit of peace and quiet. I want to get back now to be with my family, where I feel totally comfortable and totally myself."

Skipper Martin Johnson, meanwhile, said he would take time to reflect before deciding on his playing future after leading England to their 20-17 extra-time win over Australia on Saturday.

"People have been asking me (about retirement) for 18 months," the 33-year-old said. "It's not the time to make that decision now."

He said he would talk to his coaches and his family but added: "You never want to leave playing for England, especially when you are winning."

Asked what he felt about not getting a rest before returning to play for Leicester, he added: "We all have to go to work tomorrow. It's what we do for a living."

Many reports have suggested Wilkinson in particular will see his earning power leap because of the World Cup, but coach Clive Woodward thought the team would cope with the adulation.

"I always hoped we would create superstars and clearly we are doing it," he said.

"I have no doubt their lives will change to a certain degree but they will take it in their strides."

He hoped the victory would lead into "a real golden age for English rugby".

The team was thronged by thousands of supporters when they arrived at Heathrow airport just after 5 a.m. (0500 GMT) on Monday.

"It's been a bit overwhelming. To see so many people has been fantastic," Johnson said.

"The guys couldn't believe it. There were thousands of people waiting in the freezing cold.

"When you are away you sort of cocoon yourself a little bit. We had no idea what was going on at home."

Winger Ben Cohen said his uncle George, a member of England's 1966 soccer World Cup winning side, had seen the Sydney final and the pair had met up "for a chat and a cup of tea", adding: "I was great to emulate his achievements."

Flanker Lawrence Dallaglio, asked to describe some of the team celebrations after Saturday's win, said: "There wasn't too much Waltzing Matilda sung."

The news conference had another moment of hilarity when an Australian journalist asked a question about the state of sport in England, referring in particular to the cricket team. Australia have beaten England in the last eight Ashes series.