Martin Johnson plays waiting game

Martin Johnson will wait until the end of next month before naming replacements for Riki Flutey and Delon Armitage, both of whom have been ruled out of England's autumn internationals by shoulder injuries.

The team manager has decided to wait until he has watched six rounds of the Guinness Premiership before deciding on a new full-back and inside-centre for the Tests against Australia, Argentina and New Zealand. Northampton's Ben Foden is likely to challenge for the No15 jersey while Jordan Turner-Hall, of Harlequins, is pressing for a centre place.

Johnson said: "Riki and Delon both had excellent international seasons last year and I wish them well with their recovery. Injuries happen. We have to get them back playing and look at the next guys in line.

"There are some very good young players in the Saxons group and some good players outside it.

"The England Senior players will meet again on 25 October and a squad will be announced the following day."

Armitage, who was injured during London Irish's victory over Gloucester on Saturday, is expected to have an operation next Monday.

The Rugby Football Union, who are overseeing Armitage's recovery, said: "Until that has happened the exact period of time that Delon will be unavailable cannot be confirmed but it is expected it will be for up to 12 weeks."

If that is the case, then Armitage will also miss the first four matches of London Irish's Heineken Cup campaign.