LONDON - Harlequins flanker Chris Robshaw has been ruled out of England's November internationals after having knee surgery, the Premiership club announced on Tuesday.
The news of Robshaw's surgery comes a day after Saracens number eight Billy Vunipola was ruled out of the November series with a broken arm, adding to England's injury woes. England are without injured lock Joe Launchbury while Bath fullback Anthony Watson and Exeter forward Sam Simmonds will also miss next month's games.
"We are hugely disappointed to lose Chris for a short period of time while he recovers from this injury," Harlequins head of rugby Paul Gustard said in a statement. "Not least because he's been one of our standout performers across our first seven games this season and also because this period provides the opportunity to represent England in the autumn internationals."
Harlequins said Robshaw picked up the injury in their 25-20 defeat by Saracens earlier this month and the 32-year-old will be sidelined for eight weeks. "Knowing Chris' character and resilience I am confident he will make the most of this opportunity and come back even better and stronger. He will still play an active role in leading our team despite not being able to take the field."
England face South Africa, New Zealand, Japan and Australia next month with coach Eddie Jones set to announce his squad on Thursday. Jones could also be without loosehead prop Mako Vunipola, young lock Nick Isiekwe, star second-rower Maro Itoje, hooker Jamie George; who are all recovering from injuries of difference severity.