Wilkinson doubtful despite op boost

Martin Johnson has confirmed that Jonny Wilkinson will not require shoulder surgery - but he remains doubtful for England's clash with New Zealand on November 6.

Wilkinson underwent a scan on Tuesday after reporting to England's training camp with a shoulder problem sustained in Toulon's defeat to Stade Francais on Saturday night.

Johnson said: "Jonny has seen the specialist and had the results from the scan. He doesn't need surgery and is receiving rehab from the medical team."

The England manager added: "We have to work out what the injury means in terms of rugby going into next week. He will be assessed day-to-day and we will have a better idea towards the end of the week where he is.

"I'd describe it as wear and tear. Like a lot of these injuries, it is not as clear-cut as all that and you have to work out what the results mean for his ability to play rugby at the highest level."

But Johnson has not closed the door on Wilkinson recovering in time to feature against the All Blacks in the first of England's four Investec internationals.

"There is not a game on Saturday for us. It would be pretty clear-cut if there was," said Johnson.

England also have injury concerns over Riki Flutey and Simon Shaw, who have not trained this week after suffering calf injuries.

Hendrie Fourie returned to training on Wednesday after taking a bang to the ribs in Leeds' defeat to Sale on Friday night.

David Wilson's back problem cleared up enough for him to take part in training, but fellow prop Paul Doran-Jones sat out the session at Pennyhill Park as a precaution.