Greenwood out of Six Nations after shoulder surgery

LONDON - England centre Will Greenwood will miss next year's Six Nations after undergoing shoulder surgery that will rule him out of action for up to four months, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) said on Thursday.

Greenwood left hospital on Thursday following an operation on his right shoulder on Wednesday to cure a problem that had been giving him "low grade pain" for a year.

"Typically after the operation a player can expect to be back into team training after three months and back to full match play after four months," the RFU said.

England begin their Six Nations campaign against Wales in Cardiff on February 5 and conclude at home to Scotland on March 19.

Winger James Simpson-Daniel, whose hopes of establishing himself in the England team have regularly been hit by injury setbacks, also faces another layoff following a shoulder injury.

Simpson-Daniel suffered the injury playing for Gloucester against Cardiff in the Heineken Cup earlier this month and is to have an arthroscopy operation on December 29.

"It's disappointing to hear of the injuries to these world class players but I'm pleased to note their progress has so far been positive," said England coach Andy Robinson.

"It's a cause for concern that there appear to be more rugby injuries at this level and it's important we all protect the welfare and longevity of every professional player."

- REUTERS