Knee injury set to end Harlequins fullback Mike Brown's season

Harlequins have suffered a major blow in the ongoing campaign as England international Mike Brown is set to miss the remainder of the season with a knee surgery.

According to Harlequins boss Paul Gustard, the 34-year-old suffered the injury at the end of the pre-season camp and has been experiencing discomfort for quite a while.

The news will be a big setback to the 6ft fullback as he was aiming to make a comeback in the England squad ahead of the Six Nations tournament after was left out of World Cup squad.

"Mike has tried hard to train and play over the last few weeks but unfortunately his situation has worsened," said Gustard.

"It would be damaging to his long-term knee health if he continued to try and play. Losing Mike is a big loss to the squad.

"He is of course disappointed as ultimately he wants to compete and give his all to the shirt.

"Under the guidance of our outstanding medical team led by Mike Lancaster, allied to Browny's incredible attitude to improve and his diligence to rehab, I know he will do everything he can to return to play faster than anticipated.

"We will look to see how we can use Mike in other capacities to help the squad."

Brown has a vast experience of featuring for England in 72 Tests apart from over 300 appearances for the Quins.