England's Clifford out of Argentina tour

The 24-year-old loose forward, capped 10 times by England, is to undergo shoulder surgery.

His Premiership club Harlequins said that the operation was to repair a recurring injury that Clifford suffered earlier in the season.

The London side added Clifford was expected to be out of action for 12 weeks.

Clifford is set to miss his club's three remaining Premiership matches against Exeter, Wasps and Northampton, in addition to possible European Champions Cup qualification play-off fixtures late next month.

"While it is hugely disappointing for Jack to miss the conclusion of our season, the issue needed addressing immediately," said John Kingston, Harlequins' Director of Rugby.

"I have no doubt Jack will do all that he can to get himself back to fitness and return all the better and stronger for it."

Clifford appeared twice for England when they retained their Six Nations title earlier this season, starting the win over Wales in Cardiff and coming off the bench as Italy were beaten at Twickenham.

England coach Eddie Jones is due to name his squad for Argentina next week.

Agence France-Presse