Gloucester wing James Simpson-Daniel has undergone a shoulder operation which will keep him on the sidelines for up to four months.
30-year-old Simpson-Daniel, who represented England in 10 Tests, went under the knife at the weekend having last played on 3 November.
Gloucester director of rugby Nigel Davies said Simpson-Daniel's injury was a setback as he was a regular in the Cherry and Whites' starting Xv this season.
"It's a blow for James and for us, particularly with the way he has been playing," he told the BBC
"We are hugely disappointed because James was a big part of what we'd been so far this season."
Simpson-Daniel had played every minute of Gloucester's Premiership campaign until he was substituted at half-time in the 28-25 defeat to Harlequins three weeks ago.
"We are hugely disappointed because James was a big part of what we'd been so far this season," dded Davies.
"He had an operation and there was damage in his shoulder and that has been repaired. That will keep him away from action for about three to four months.
"In one regard he is on the way to recovery, but it's going to be a reasonably lengthy process.
"Now it falls on to the next guys to come in and do exactly the same. We've played without him on a couple of occasions before and we've been able to do that."
Comments
sanka69 says...
Will be missed Sinbad, you have been as awesome as ever this season - real shame for us.
Posted 10:17 21st November 2012