No surgery required for Strettle

The player impressed greatly in the 2006-7 season to earn a spot in the England squad ahead of the World Cup, saw most of last season from the stands after suffering a serious foot injury, but has played a part in this season's league campaign with his club.

But a club statement realease today reads: "David Strettle had to come off the pitch in the 37th minute of last Thursday's away match, against Worcester Warriors.

"After being examined by a specialist, it has been confirmed that the injury is a re-occurrence of the injury David picked up when playing for England, during last season.

The advice which has been given is to rest, with no surgical intervention being required. Because it is a repeat of the previous injury, there will be further investigative work done to try and help prevent the likelihood of any further re-occurrence of this particular injury."

Strettle will be out of action for the next 5-7 weeks.

This latest injury blow will further unsettle the player who had been tipped for a fruitful career in an England and possible Lions jersey.

In May 2007, Strettle was named as the Professional Rugby Player's Association Young Player of the Season. He was also named in the Sky Sports Dream Team for the Guinness Premiership season 2006-07.