Jack Clifford out of England autumn series due to injury

England international Jack Clifford has been ruled out of action for 10 weeks due to an ankle injury which will keep him out of the autumn Tests.

The 23-year-old, who was a part of England's Grand Slam victory during the 2016 Six Nations sustained the injury while representing his club Harlequins in the Aviva Premiership clash against Exeter last weekend.

Harlequins rugby director John Kingston confirmed the news on Clifford, who will now undergo a lengthy rehabilitation period.

"It's very disappointing and unfortunate that Jack has sustained his ankle injury which will keep him out for approximately 10 weeks," said Kingston.

"Jack is a fierce competitor and I have no doubt he will work exceptionally hard to get himself back on the field as quickly as possible."

Clifford made just one start in the nine games under head coach Eddie Jones but with James Haskell out due to injury, the chance of former England Under-20 making it to the XV brightened but now finds himself in the sidelines.