Leicester Tigers have confirmed that Tom Croft faces the rest of the season on the sidelines after surgery on a knee injury.

Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: “Tom had a bang on the knee at the end of Sunday’s game against Worcester which seemed innocuous but, after further investigation, it appears the damage is to the ACL, the cruciate. He had surgery on that yesterday and it is likely his season is over.

“It is horrendous bad luck for Tom. He came back from a neck injury last year to play so well for Leicester, England and the British and Irish Lions, and he is a world-class player. But these things happen in sport.

“He will make a full recovery, but it just takes time. It is a big blow for him and for us, but we will look forward to welcoming him back when he has fully recovered.”

England head coach Stuart Lancaster added: “It’s really tough on Tom, having worked so hard to come back after his neck injury. He is in good hands with the Leicester medical team and our own medics will be in regular contact with them to help him in his recovery. We wish him all the best."