Robinson laments fresh Wilkinson blow

England head coach Andy Robinson has expressed his sympathy for World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson after yet another injury set-back.

The Newcastle fly-half faces a further month on the sidelines after it emerged he suffered kidney damage on his return to action following eight weeks out with knee ligament damage last Friday.

The 27-year-old had hoped to put his problems behind him after playing the full 80 minutes of Newcastle’s 26-21 Guinness Premiership win over Bristol.

But Wilkinson has suffered pain since the game and medical examinations have shown damage to the kidney. He has been advised to rest for a month before resuming any form of training.

Robinson, currently preparing his team for Saturday’s Test match against Argentina at Twickenham, said: “Everyone in the England camp wishes him all the best for his recovery.

“We are looking forward to seeing him back playing for Newcastle Falcons and putting this unlucky run of injuries behind him.”