Vickery was injured in the game against Sale

Wasps prop Phil Vickery has been ruled out for up to eight weeks after a scan revealed a knee ligament tear.

The 32-year-old England captain could miss the remainder of the Premiership season and may also miss his country's tour to New Zealand in June.

"Losing a player of Phil's calibre and experience is a major blow," said Wasps' director of rugby Ian McGeechan.

Vickery limped off with a knee injury during his side's 29-19 win over Sale Sharks on Tuesday.

He twisted his right leg in a ruck and tried to continue after having strapping applied but he limped off after two scrums.

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Wasps still won the game - a seventh successive league victory - and moved into fourth place as they bid to add to their 2003, 2004 and 2005 titles.

They have four Premiership games remaining against Saracens, Gloucester, Newcastle and Leeds.

"The busy schedule we've been faced with recently has demonstrated the strength that we have throughout the Wasps squad," added McGeechan.

"With careful management allied to the spirit and determination the players are showing, we are confident we can remain competitive for the remainder of the season."