Percival battles to recover from neck injury

Northampton forward James Percival is recovering in hospital after a successful operation to stabilise his neck.

The England U-21 lock suffered a neck fracture during Saints’ pre-season friendly against Munster, and underwent surgery at Oxford’s Radcliffe Infirmary.

“The operation was a total success and there were no complications,” said Northampton rugby director Budge Pountney, after visiting Percival yesterday.

“He still has a little weakness in his left arm, but the surgeon is happy this will come right through the rehabilitation process.

“We are also pretty sure he will make a full return to rugby. It might take a bit of time, but he should be back on the field in the future.