Newcastle's Jonny Wilkinson looks certain to be fit for this summer's British Lions tour of Australia.
The inspirational England fly-half came off injured in the Falcons' 17-12 European shield defeat by Harlequins on Sunday.
Rob Andrew, Newcastle director of rugby, later revealed Wilkinson had been struggling in recent weeks with a neck injury.
He said: "It started with a bang against London Irish and over the past three games he has constantly jarred his neck.
"But there is no problem as far as the Lions are concerned.
"All he needs is three or four weeks without taking any hits and that is what he will get."
Lions coach Graham Henry is due to name his 37-man squad on Wednesday.
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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 hereComments are closed on this article