Sam Jones
Jones was set to make his England debut this autumn having impressed for an unbeaten Wasps side. Getty Images

England's back-row selection dilemma has worsened after confirmation that Sam Jones has suffered a broken leg in a training ground incident. The Wasps youngster was one of seven uncapped players named in Eddie Jones' first autumn internationals squad but will be unavailable for a lengthy period.

The 24-year-old underwent an X-ray on Wednesday to determine the nature of the problem after returning to his club, which revealed a fracture of his right fibula. He will undergo an MRI scan to discover the full extent of the break which should include a timeline on his return.

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Jones was in contention to replace James Haskell and Jack Clifford, who will also miss the games against South Africa, Fiji, Argentina and Australia due to fitness problems. The blow opens the door for Leicester Tigers' Mike Williams or even Maro Itoje to play at number seven.

Speaking on the injury to Jones, who has starred amid Wasps' unbeaten start to the new Premiership season, director of rugby Dai Young said: "It's a big blow and I really feel for Sam, because he has worked his socks off for Wasps and deservedly got his call-up to England. Sam has been one of the first names on my team sheet this season and he will be a big loss for us, but we are lucky to have a lot of talented back rowers at the club who have already stepped up this season.

"My biggest disappointment is for Sam as he's been playing so well and I'm sure would have made a good impression in the England camp. These things happen, but you can't help but feel sorry for him. It's too soon to know how long he will be out, but our medics and physios will look after him and we look forward to having him back when he is ready."