Thursday 27 September 2018 20:41, UK
Ben Te'o is facing a delay to his latest comeback from injury after the Worcester centre suffered a calf problem that prevented him from training with England this week.
Te'o has yet to play this season due to a thigh problem initially incurred during the Six Nations and he underwent surgery that ruled him out of the summer tour to South Africa.
It was hoped he would be back for the Gallagher Premiership clash with Exeter on Saturday, but he is now facing extra time on the sidelines to rob him of additional opportunities to prove his fitness ahead of England's autumn campaign.
"Ben got a little bit of a setback with a calf injury," director of rugby Alan Solomons said.
"I know that he did not train at the England camp on Monday and Tuesday. He wouldn't be available for selection this week.
"I don't think it will be a lengthy period out. It's a little bit of a setback but there is no point putting him in and considering him for selection until he is right.
"He hasn't played until the back end of last season for us. I think it's frustrating for him as he needs to get game time to challenge for a position in the national team."
Te'o suffered a high ankle sprain that ruled him out for four months last year, preventing him from playing in the autumn series.
Meanwhile, former England captain Phil Vickery predicts more players will emulate Joe Marler by choosing to end their international careers early.
Marler was a certainty to be part of the squad for next year's World Cup but on Wednesday the loosehead prop announced he is to step out of the Test arena at the young age of 28.
The desire to spend more time with his family has shaped the 59-cap loosehead's decision, but his retirement is also being viewed as evidence of the demands of the modern game.
"Sadly I think it's a sign for the future...and sincerely hope the great and good who run our game are thinking about the pressures and welfare of our heroes!!!" Vickery said on Twitter.
"I think it's great Joe had the courage to make such a life-changing decision...but then he was never one to just follow."
