Hill was due to undergo surgery on Wednesday

Hill sustained the injury when captaining England against the New Zealand Barbarians earlier this month.

He was struck with a straight arm by Troy Flavell and the Kiwi lock was subsequently cited by England.

Hill said: "The nose fracture is still unstable and it could take a week or two to set properly. If I took another blow it could make matters worse."

Hill had hoped to return for Saracens' New Year's Day match against Leeds at Vicarage Road.

But a visit to a specialist revealed permanent displacement of the nose and Hill was due to undergo an operation on Wednesday morning.

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Hill, said: The specialist felt it was better to operate right now.

"I was desperate to be able to take part in Saracens' fixtures over the festive period.

"I hope to be able to watch the game on Thursday and now I must concentrate all my efforts on getting back to full fitness as soon as I can."

Flavell was cited for striking Hill with a swinging arm and will have a hearing in January.