World Cup over for Sheridan

The 31-year-old will head home for treatment after suffering the injury during England's Pool B opener against Argentina on Saturday, with a return not possible during the tournament.

He will be replaced in England's 30-man squad in New Zealand, although team manager Martin Johnson is yet to decide on who will be called up.

Johnson said: "It's really sad for Sheri. He has been unlucky with injuries and we wish him all the best for his recovery.

"We brought five props so we have options there and we can bring another player out but we will decide what to do about that in due course."

The move is subject to final approval from the tournament's medical director.

"It's really sad for Sheri. He has been unlucky with injuries and we wish him all the best for his recovery. "
Martin Johnson Quotes of the week

Previous problems

Sheridan, who had only recently returned from reconstructive surgery on his right shoulder, injured the left one during the victory over the Pumas.

The Sale loose-head has also already had two operations on that shoulder since dislocating it just under two years ago.

Scans were sent back to the UK for the specialists who have previously operated on him to determine the full extent of the problem.

England then received confirmation that Sheridan's injury was serious enough for him to be sent home, and under tournament rules he cannot return.

Northampton prop Paul Doran-Jones and Wasps' Tim Payne could be the leading options to replace Sheridan as they were included in England's initial 45-man training squad, but England still have four props available despite Sheridan's absence.