BBC SPORT | Rugby Union | International | England blow for Hodgson and Worsley

Hodgson scored a record 44 points on his debut

World Cup prospects Charlie Hodgson and Joe Worsley will both miss England's three autumn Tests against the southern hemisphere heavyweights.

Sale Sharks stand-off Hodgson will undergo knee surgery at the weekend and could be out of action for up to a further month.

And Wasps flanker Worsley faces a lay-off of between four and six weeks after straining a hamstring against Gloucester last weekend.

Hodgson, 21, emerged as Jonny Wilkinson's understudy last season and had been tipped to make a major impact against New Zealand, South Africa and Australia.

But he has not played since injuring his knee in a tackle while playing for Sale against London Irish on 5 October.

The surgery is more of a cleaning out job, rather than anything else

Charlie Hodgson

It was initially hoped the problem would be cured by rest, but doctors have now decided surgery is the only option.

"Obviously, I am disappointed to have missed the last three games for my club, and to be ruled out of the three internationals next month," Hodgson said.

"But, if all goes according to plan, I should be back in training quite soon.

Hodgson signs new Sale deal

"Hopefully, I will be back in time for our two Heineken Cup games against Llanelli in December.

"The surgery is more of a cleaning out job, rather than anything else."

Joe Worsley tries to claim a line-out on England duty
Worsley was a regular in the squad last season

Hodgson's domestic form this season sparked speculation that he might even start at fly-half against New Zealand on Saturday week, with Wilkinson moving to inside centre.

That option has now been taken away from England coach Clive Woodward, who announces his squad on Thursday.

With Hodgson out of contention, there could be a recall to the bench for Bath's Mike Catt.

Worsley, capped 20 times, started three of England's Six Nations matches last season, and featured in last summer's Test triumph in Argentina.

But his place was under pressure in a fiercely competitive back-row area where youngsters Alex Sanderson and James Forrester are also in contention.

Those three are vying with the more established Lawrence Dallaglio, Richard Hill, Neil Back and Lewis Moody.


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