Worcester Warriors have today confirmed that back row Tom Wood is expected be ruled out of competitive action for four months as he prepares for surgery on his right shoulder.
Dynamic flanker Wood, a product of the Warriors Academy system, burst onto the first team scene last season and has made 27 appearances for the first team.
The 22-year-old, born and bred in Coventry, had made seven starts for Warriors this term but will go under the knife this week to cure a persistent right shoulder problem that is now interfering with playing and training.
Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock believes Wood has the natural attributes and physical size to become an international back row forward and has backed his young star to make a full recovery.
“It’s a blow that Tom’s shoulder condition requires surgery and we wish him a speedy recovery,” said Ruddock.
“We have taken the decision to allow surgery to be performed as soon as possible in the interest of both the player and our team. Further delay and exposure to the shoulder could result in the injury requiring bigger surgical intervention which, in turn, could create a longer rehabilitation period and put Tom out for even longer.
“Tom is an outstanding young forward with a very bright future ahead of him. We will now do everything in our control to make sure he is given the very best support and treatment to allow him to not only make a successful return but also achieve his full potential in the future.”