'You want players to be robots?' - Ellis Genge explains pre-match comments aimed at Exeter's Harry Williams

Ellis Genge has taken to social media to explain his pre-match comments aimed at Exeter Chiefs' prop Harry Wiliams.

Talking to BT Sports' Ben Kay, the England prop said in relation to the scrums between Leicester Tigers and Exeter: "I just hope it stays up to be honest."

"I've been chatting to Harry (Williams) all week, I sent a letter two weeks ago, contemplating this game. I sent a letter to his address in Exeter.

"I don't know if he opened them yet. He knows what's coming."

His comments were widely received in the humour they were meant, although the loosehead felt he had to take to Twitter to explain them afterwards, presumably after a minority online didn't see the funny side of the prop trash talk.

"Why’s everyone losing their minds over a bit of craic between me and arry, you lot need to relax do you want players to be robots and give you 0 personality. Well done Exeter Chiefs, you lot are class safe journey home, thanks to our fans too! Merry Christmas everyone."

What followed was a deluge of people applauding him for breaking the mould with some funny trash talk. The target of the banter himself - Harry Williams - clearly saw the funny side.

"Just a joke guys, bit of fun. It's all love. Merry Christmas."

England wing Anthony Watson tweeted: "Talk the ting Genge. What happens when u try have fun".

Will Carling backed him up, saying: "Don’t ever change mate - real fans appreciate how special you are - the rest are really not worth a second thought !! I love you."

Ugo Monye tweeted: "Loved it".

Former roommate and Bristol Bears flyhalf Callum Sheedy Tweeted: "Relaxxxxxxxx... Up the genge. Congrats on the big 5.0 roomie."

The game needs more like Ellis Genge, not less.

RugbyPass had the pleasure of talking to England and Leicester centre Manu Tuilagi about all things Lions!