Three England stalwarts to miss out on World Cup training squad

The 33-year-old hooker, who skippered England to their record equalling run of 18 consecutive Test wins at the start of Jones’ regime, has not played at all since December 21.

His club Northampton Saints have consistently described his knee as ‘grumbly’ and it's been reported that the Mail Online and BBC that the issue has still not been fully resolved.

England boss Jones is set to name the first of three staggered squads on Thursday, which will include all those not involved in the Premiership playoffs.

Scrum-half Danny Care and flanker Chris Robshaw are also understood to be among the high-profile omissions.