Rugby: Loss of Sheridan a blow to England, admits Corbisiero

Alex CORBISIERO admits England will miss the presence of fellow loosehead prop Andrew Sheridan after he was ruled out of the Rugby World Cup with a shoulder injury.

Sheridan had scans on his left shoulder after England’s 13-9 victory over Argentina and surgeons back in the UK, who studied the images, advised he should return home.

The Sale prop had battled back from reconstructive surgery on his right shoulder to make the World Cup squad.

England’s management are waiting for tournament organisers to officially ratify Sheridan’s departure before settling on the identity of a replacement.

“It is very disappointing,” Corbisiero said. “I just wish him all the best.

We’ve just got to get on with it now and go forward as a team in the tournament.” Meanwhile, in Pool D Samoa had a crushing 49-12 victory over Namibia in Rotorua today. Leicester winger Alesana Tuilagi starred with three tries against the South Seas Islanders.