Start of Zurich Premiership ‘realistic target’ for Wilkinson

THE England team doctor has admitted it is still difficult to predict when World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson will be able to return to action.

Dr Simon Kemp believes the start of the new Zurich Premiership season in the autumn remains a realistic target for the 24-year-old Newcastle Falcons fly-half who is certain to miss England's tour of New Zealand and Australia in June.

However, Dr Kemp said it was crucial Wilkinson was not rushed back after suffering damage to a nerve at the top of his spine.