Wilkinson has suffered a succession of injuries in the past 18 months

Reports had suggested the Lions could not afford to insure Newcastle fly-half Jonny Wilkinson and other players with injury concerns.

But a statement from Lions chief executive John Feehan and Premier Rugby denied this was the case.

"The regulations laid down by the Lions Committee are clear - no player will travel without insurance," it said.

"Those not eligible for insurance due to a pre-existing injury will be found alternative cover, or an agreement will be reached with the player to ensure any potential loss is underwritten."

Wilkinson has not played international rugby since the World Cup final in November 2003 after suffering a series of injuries.

It's not the way you'd expect any organisation to carry on Players' chief Damian Hopley

He is one of several potential Lions tourists with fitness problems, including Richard Hill, Mike Tindall, Will Greenwood and Phil Vickery.

The medical insurance bill for the 44-man squad is reportedly expected to top �700,000.

With the Lions only touring every four years, the organisation only has limited opportunities to generate funds.

But Damian Hopley, chief executive of the Professional Rugby Union Players' Association, says the Lions must be responsible for the players who travel this summer.

He intends to seek a meeting with Lions team bosses in an attempt to resolve the situation.

"Clearly, the Lions are employing the players for the length of the tour and there is a duty of care here," Hopley told the Evening Standard.

"If the Lions want to take a player on tour, then they should be prepared to underwrite the cover.

Jonny is about as close as you can get, without actually being there Newcastle boss Rob Andrew

"I'll take this issue up with the Lions. It's not the way you'd expect any organisation to carry on. It puts even more pressure on players like Jonny at this crucial stage of the season."

Wilkinson's latest comeback has been delayed for at least another week.

He has not played since suffering his second knee injury of the season against Harlequins almost four weeks ago, and hoped to return against Stade Francais last Saturday.

He will now miss Sunday's Premiership match against Worcester.

"Jonny is about as close as you can get, without actually being there," said Newcastle director of rugby Rob Andrew.

"We have got to do the right thing and ensure he is 100%."