Wilkinson: 'I didn't injure Thomas'

England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson does not believe he injured Wales flanker Jonathan Thomas with a dangerous tackle.

Wilkinson could be cited today after an incident in the 13th minute of England’s RBS 6 Nations defeat at Twickenham on Saturday which led to Thomas leaving the field.

Match citing commissioner John West has until 6.30pm today to decide whether to lodge any complaint against Wilkinson.

Wilkinson appeared to catch Thomas’ head with his arm but there did not seem to be any intent on his part and Wales have not complained.

Wilkinson wrote in his column in The Times: “There has been speculation that it was my tackle that led to it.

“I feel that it was not my tackle and I would add that it is always very sad to see a player going off injured. I am firmly against foul play in the game.”

If cited, Wilkinson would face a disciplinary hearing and potential ban that would further increase injury-hit England’s woes.

Mike Tindall, David Strettle, Lewis Moody and Tom Rees have already been ruled out of next Sunday’s clash against Italy in Rome.

Wilkinson concedes, however, that his performance against Wales may not have been good enough for him to retain his place anyway.

He said: “I hate to talk about speculation over selection, but I realise that this has become a talking point.

“My attitude to this is that you can’t waste energy thinking about it.

“Being picked is fantastic, but if I’m not deemed the best person, then I’d understand.”