England dealt major injury blow as key player suffers latest setback
England lock George Martin hasn't played any rugby since February 8
England and Leicester Tigers lock George Martin is in a race against time to be fit for the Autumn Nations Series, with the forward unlikely to feature in the first half of the new PREM season.
The towering forward has not played any rugby since suffering an injury in England’s Six Nations win over France in February, and has since undergone shoulder surgery in the off-season.
Martin, 24, was one of 25 players to be awarded an Enhanced EPS contract by England boss Steve Borthwick last month, despite missing the backend of last year and the subsequent tour of the Americas.
‘The timeframe on George’s availability is slightly unknown’
There was hope Martin would be fit for the upcoming PREM season with Leicester, but after undergoing the operation this summer, it seems he will likely be out until at least the new year.
“As with any nerve injuries, the timeframe on George’s availability is slightly unknown,” said newly appointed Tigers boss Geoff Parling. “But to give George the best chance to perform, we know it won’t be during the first half of this season.”
Also commenting, England head coach Borthwick added: “George is a fantastic player and a valued member of the England squad. He approaches everything he does with professionalism and commitment, and there’s no doubt he’s bringing that same focus to his rehab. We look forward to seeing him back when the time is right.”
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This setback for Martin also leaves England in a sticky position heading into the Autumn Nations Series. He has been a key member of Borthwick’s squad since the former Leicester boss took the reins at Twickenham, with the forward winning 20 of his 21 Test caps under the current boss.
But, England are well-stocked at lock, even with Martin likely to be unavailable. Leicester teammate Ollie Chessum started alongside captain Maro Itoje in the final three Six Nations Tests in Martin’s absence, while Charlie Ewels, Alex Coles and Arthur Clark also impressed on the summer tour.
Chandler Cunningham-South and Ted Hill have also featured in the second-row for England at various points.
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