Saracens centre Duncan Taylor could still feature at Rugby World Cup after knee surgery
Taylor to miss rest of season after surgery on ruptured knee ligaments; "I'm optimistic he'll be back for the World Cup," says Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall
Wednesday 12 September 2018 20:42, UK
Scotland centre Duncan Taylor will miss the remainder of the 2018/19 season after knee surgery but Saracens are optimistic he will return in time for the Rugby World Cup.
Taylor ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament during a second-string game for Saracens against Exeter Braves on September 3.
The 29-year-old had surgery on Tuesday and is not expected to be back until June but could prove his fitness in time for Scotland's Japan 2019 opener against Ireland on September 22.
"Duncan is out for the season and won't be back until June," said Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall, who in May awarded Taylor a new contract until 2021.
"It's a huge blow. He's obviously had a poor year injury-wise. With the head injury he was never sure when he was coming back or when he was going to feel good.
"It's cruel for one of the most popular players in the squad. It's just one of those things. We just need to support him as best as we can. I'm optimistic he'll be back for the World Cup.
"All things going equal he'll be back in June which gives him time. I'm sure he'll be in contention."
It is the latest setback for the Scot who was blighted by serious concussion symptoms last season and has also undergone two ankle surgeries and been struck by shoulder and hamstring problems.
Saracens have received more encouraging news from George Kruis, who will make his comeback from ankle surgery against Northampton on Saturday.
Kruis was operated on to correct an ongoing issue after Saracens had won the Premiership title last season, ruling him out of England's summer tour of South Africa.
Flanker Callum Clark could be involved in the trip to Franklin's Gardens after recovering from a broken arm, although he is likely to be given one more second string fixture to prove his fitness.
Billy Vunipola's return from his own fractured arm against Bristol last Saturday was a success and the England No 8 will face Saints, potentially as a replacement once again.
