Injury Watch

A new, semi-regular spot now, where we take a look at the players who are in pain and liable to miss some rugby over the next few weeks.

Bath:  Flanker Michael Lipman sustained an injury to his shoulder in the 24-19 loss at Gloucester.  The extent of the damage is as yet unknown, but he'll miss at least a month.

Gloucester:  Iain Balshaw is undergoing a scan on the ankle injured against Bath.  He is not expected to miss games, but more will be known shortly.

Newcastle:  As previously mentioned, Matthew Tait will miss six weeks due to a knee injury sustained in training.  An operation took place last Friday.

Northampton:  Centre Jon Clarke is out for four months with a broken ankle.

Sale:  Lock Ignacio Fernandez Lobbe will miss six weeks with a chest muscle tear suffered against Leicester on Sunday.  In brighter news, Sebastien Chabal has recovered from his knock sustained in that game.

Saracens:  Andy Farrell may make his debut this weekend at Bristol.  But don't hold your breath JUST yet.