Phil Vickery will be out of action for three months

The Gloucester tight-head will undergo surgery on a back problem this week and will be unavailable for selection.

Vickery, who missed Saturday's 28-25 win over London Wasps, is expected to be out for three months.

Gloucester director of rugby Nigel Melville said: "Everyone agreed that it was best to have the operation as soon as possible."

England face the All Blacks twice on 12 and 19 June and Australia in Sydney on 26 June.

They are already likely to be without fly-half Jonny Wilkinson and flankers Lewis Moody and Alex Sanderson.

More immediately, Vickery's absence will mean 38 year-old Andy Deacon will continue at tight-head for Gloucester for the rest of the season.

"It's a big blow for us as we'll miss Phil for the rest of the season," Melville added.

"And it's a blow for England as he won't be available for the summer matches. But it means the problem with his back can be addressed and he can return to pre-season training in August.

"Fortunately, we've got Andy Deacon in superb form at the moment, and he'll be looking forward to Saturday's game against Bath more than anyone."