Wilkinson injury scare ahead of France clash

England will begin preparations for their RBS 6 Nations Championship clash against France in a familiar position — with an injury cloud hanging over Jonny Wilkinson.

The Newcastle fly-half limped out of his team’s 38-12 Guinness Premiership defeat at London Irish, and was due to be assessed by Falcons medical staff yesterday.

Newcastle rugby director John Fletcher said Wilkinson had come off just before the end because of cramp.

But there will be inevitable concerns about possible hamstring trouble, especially as Wilkinson almost missed England’s record 43-13 Six Nations loss to Ireland eight days ago after his hamstring tightened prior to a training session.

England head coach Brian Ashton, will also require checks on Jason Robinson (neck), Magnus Lund (concussion), Steve Borthwick (rib) and David Strettle (leg).