Six Nations: Leicester's Dan Cole doubtful for England opener

Leicester prop Dan Cole could miss England's opening game in this year’s Six Nations tournament against Wales early next month.

Cole has a foot injury and Tigers’ director of rugby Richard Cockerill says the forward is likely to be out of action until the end of January.

England start their Six Nations campaign in the Millennium Stadium on February 6 and Cole could be sitting alongside team-mate Manu Tuilagi who has been sidelined with a groin injury since October.

Cockerill said: "Manu and Coley are probably still end of the month at this point.

"They may well be fit for the Wales game but whether they will be match fit I don't know. We will see."

Cole has not played for England since last season's Six Nations, following surgery on his neck, and has made eight appearances for the Welford Road side this season.

Cockerill also believes Tom Youngs should be a contender for England’s starting XV in Cardiff, adding: "If there is a better hooker in England after the weekend I don't know who he is.

"Tommy has been outstanding for us. Tom is a different league.”