Northampton centre Geoff Appleford is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after undergoing a second operation on his injured shoulder. The 28-year-old had surgery to repair nerve damage and will not be fit to play for another two years.
The England international suffered the injury while playing for the national sevens team in France in June.
The Rugby Football Union have funded the player's treatment and are currently paying his salary.
It will take six months before sensation returns to the injured shoulder.
"This is obviously disappointing for Geoff but we hope to see him pull on a Saints jersey in the future," said Northampton rugby director Budge Pountney.
"He is a very talented player and a decent guy, so we will be putting his time to good use by involving him in the coaching team until he is ready to play again."
Appleford joined Saints on a three-year deal from London Irish in the summer but has yet to play a game for his new club after suffering the injury in June.
He had his first operation in July and originally was hoping to return to action in September.
Meanwhile, fellow centre David Quinlan will be out for up to four weeks after suffering a knee strain in the defeat to Leeds.
MMIX
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