Lesley Vainikolo has been ruled out of Gloucester's Guinness Premiership clash against Wasps on Saturday due to a knee injury.

Vainikolo has been tipped to make his England debut against RBS 6 Nations Championship opponents Wales next Saturday.

Vainikolo took a blow to his left knee during Gloucester's Heineken Cup victory over Ulster last Sunday, and was not considered for selection.

Gloucester head coach Dean Ryan said: "Les took a bang to the knee last week, and although the injury is not serious it will prevent him playing against Wasps.

"It is not a long-term issue, and he will link up with England as planned over the weekend.

"It is obviously a significant blow to us ahead of such an important match, but we are not going to take risks with a player like Les.

"In a season of this length and intensity, you pick up injuries - we just have to manage that."

Vainikolo's England Six Nations squad colleague Iain Balshaw will replace him on the wing tomorrow, with Willie Walker starting at full-back.

Fitness permitting, juggernaut wing Vainikolo is expected to feature in England's match-day 22 for the Wales clash.

Ashton has already lost scrum-half Peter Richards (biceps) and back-row forward Joe Worsley (neck) from his plans, while Worsley's fellow forwards Simon Shaw and Nick Easter are battling to overcome injuries.

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