Wilkinson is on course to make a rapid recovery

Newcastle director of rugby Rob Andrew said Wilkinson would have a 10-day break as a start to his rehabilitation.

"We'll take it from there to see when he is able to start training again," Andrew said.

Wilkinson's father Phil said the surgery had gone well, adding: "We expect him to be back in training in as little as 10 days."

Wilkinson senior admitted it had been a nervous time for the family.

"As a parent it was a rather anxious time waiting for news.

"It was causing us some worry because it was a delicate operation."

But Wilkinson senior is confident his son will soon be back in action.

"Obviously he won't be doing any physical work but he will be able to practise his kicking and other routines worked out by Steve Black, the fitness coach of Newcastle Falcons," he said.

"Fortunately he is very fit at the moment so the lay-off won't affect him that much."