A dejected Olly Morgan leaves the Croke Park pitch on Saturday

Morgan sustained labral damage to his right shoulder during the 43-13 defeat at Croke Park and now requires surgery.

The 21-year-old will undergo an operation on Monday following consultation with a specialist.

"It's an horrendous blow for Olly, Gloucester and England," coach Dean Ryan told Gloucester's website.

"In the last 12 months he has really matured rapidly as a Premiership player.

"He has outstanding potential to be an international-quality full-back and we wish him all the very best for the operation and his recovery.

"We at Gloucester will certainly miss a player of Olly's ability, control and bravery at this crucial stage of the season and it is obviously a major blow to England."

Morgan has made 18 appearances for his club this season and made his England debut against Scotland last month.

Iain Balshaw returned for the game against Italy but was injured again, so Morgan wore the number 15 shirt in Dublin.

And with Balshaw and Morgan out, Wasps back Josh Lewsey looks certain to move from the wing to full-back for the next Six Nations match against France on 11 March.