Saint-Andre fears for Faure

Sale director of rugby Philippe Saint-Andre fears Lionel Faure is set for a prolonged spell on the sidelines after he was carried off during the 28-5 EDF Energy Cup victory against Newcastle.

The French prop sustained a heavy challenge shortly before half-time and was rushed straight to hospital with a suspected broken leg. His injury overshadowed Sale's winning start to their campaign in a competition in which they failed to reach the knockout stages of last term.

"It's a serious blow for Lionel and for the team," admitted Saint-Andre. "It was a bad injury and we think he's broken a bone in his leg. He's gone straight to hospital and we'll await the results of the tests. It's very disappointing because Jon Bryant also picked up a calf injury and could be out for a while."