Back injury puts Courtney Lawes in doubt for England's autumn international opener

Northampton Saints lock Courtney Lawes is in doubt for England's autumn international opener against South Africa to be played on 3rd November at Twickenham following a recurring back problem.

The 29-year-old suffered the setback earlier this month after sleeping in a hotel bed that was not suited for his 6'7" height.

As a result, Lawes left England's training camp in Portugal last week and went to the United Kingdom for treatment.

England forwards coach Steve Borthwick expects Lawes to return to the camp this week but his participation in the weekend's encounter will be taken further assessment.

"He is expected to return to Portugal early this week. He has taken part in modified training last week."

England are already without Chris Robshaw, Joe Launchbury and Billy and Mako Vunipola and will take on New Zealand, Japan and Australia following the game against South Africa in their November series.