England centre Manu Tuilagi set to miss start of Six Nations campaign

England have been dealt another injury blow with Sale Sharks centre Manu Tuilagi set to miss the start of the upcoming Six Nations campaign.

Tuilagi, whose career has been hampered by injuries was seen limping off the field early in the second half in Sale Sharks' round 10 Premiership game against Saracens due to a groin injury.

Sale Sharks director of rugby Alex Sanderson said the 32-year-old might not require a surgery but is unlikely to be available for the start of the upcoming Six Nations campaign.

"Manu has pulled his groin and we think he's going to be back during the Six Nations, but not for the first week," Sanderson said.

"Six weeks is the recommended time for the injury and Manu is saying four. I spoke to him and he's like, 'I need to play and if I'm good to play it's up to England regarding selection'.

"He was in the frame before and I've stated before his intent to keep playing international rugby."

Meanwhile, Sale prop Bevan Rodd is set to miss the entire Six Nations tournament after undergoing a surgery on his toe.

England will be kick starting their Six Nations campaign with a clash against Italy in Rome on 3rd February following which they will be taking on Wales at Twickenham Stadium.