Ellis Genge is set to miss the start of England’s Six Nations campaign after Leicester confirmed the loosehead prop requires shoulder surgery and will be out of action for two months.
Genge was injured during Leicester’s defeat by Wasps last Saturday and scans revealed the need for an operation.
It is a considerable setback for Genge, who made his third start for England against Samoa the week before, and for Eddie Jones, who has targeted a record-breaking third consecutive Six Nations title.
England begin their campaign in Italy on 4 February and after Leicester revealed the extent of Genge’s injury that game will come too soon for the 22 year old.
Genge joins Semesa Rokoduguni, Manu Tuilagi, Nathan Hughes, Ben Te’o, Itoje and Billy Vunipola among the England players out of action.