Nigerian-born British rugby star, Maro Itoje has been rule out of
action with England at the Six-Nation series against France and
Wales due to a knee injury.
Another Nigerian-born player, Nick Isiekwe has been called up instead, after Itoje was declared unavailable.
Isiekwe has already stepped in for Itoje, who chipped a bone in his knee on England duty in November but played in all four autumn
Tests.
The 24-year-old Saracens lock then suffered medial ligament damage during England’s 32-20 win over Ireland in Dublin on
Saturday.
Itoje is expected to be out for two to four weeks, but will stay with the squad and could return for the final two matches of the
championship, for which his pal at Saracen, Isiekwe has been called in as cover.
In reaction, England scrum-half, Danny Care, who missed out on selection for Eddie Jones’ squad, said “He’s a big loss for England.
“He’s a guy who gives you an unbelievable amount of energy every defensive and attacking play.
“He’s in your face, he’s someone teams do not want to play against. I hope he’s back as soon as possible but there will be other
players who can step up to the plate.”
