Sale Sharks fly-half Charlie Hodgson is struggling to be fit for the start of this season's Amlin Challenge Cup campaign after undergoing shoulder surgery
The England international has started his rehabilitation, with his club saying the operation was "a complete success."
Hodgson, who impressed for his country during the summer tour to Australia and New Zealand, went under the knife on specialist's advice after his shoulder had been causing him discomfort for some time.
Sale, under the guidance of new head coach Mike Brewer, begin their Amlin Challenge Cup Pool 2 itinerary at home to Spanish champions, Cetransa El Salvador, on Friday 8 October.
