England is facing an injury crisis during the Six Nations Championship this year.
The team’s build-up to the game has been heavily disrupted, leaving head coach Eddie Jones facing some tough decisions.
Here we look into the treatment room to examine which players’ injuries may mean they miss out on the tournament.
READ MORE
- Highest points scorer in six nations and other random facts
- Six Nations referees 2022 - meet the refs assigned to every game
- Six Nations bonus points and other competition rules
Owen Farrell - centre
England’s captain has been ruled out of the entire tournament by surgery to his right ankle just days after completing his comeback from an operation to the same joint on his left leg.
Faces eight to 10 weeks of rehabilitation.
Jonny May - wing
Set to follow Farrell in being unable to take any part in the Six Nations with an ongoing knee problem almost certain to need surgery.
The prolific wing has been a key part of the backline for the last four years.
Anthony Watson – wing
Hoping to return in the latter stage of the season after needing surgery on a ruptured ACL in October.
A class act and definite starter on the wing when fit, but has been hampered by a string of long-term injuries.
Manu Tuilagi – centre
Still waiting to make his comeback from the torn hamstring he suffered while scoring the opening try in the autumn victory over South Africa.
Sale say his return is imminent and he will be given a string of club games before being considered by England.
Courtney Lawes – flanker
Deputised for Farrell as captain in the autumn and was outstanding in the role. At 32-years-old, he is playing the best rugby of his career but suffered a concussion for Northampton against Ulster on January 16.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here