England prop David Wilson ruled out of Six Nations opener

England have been dealt a blow in their preparations for the Six Nations after David Wilson was ruled out of Friday's opener with Wales due to a neck injury.

The Bath prop has been struggling with a nerve problem in recent days, and it is believed that he will need at least another week to be ready to return.

"He's still got a nerve impingement issue, and he's not going to be right for this weekend," forwards coach Graham Rowntree revealed to members of the media. "But we are hoping he will be in the mix for next week's game against Italy."

England are already without fly-half Owen Farrell, who has been ruled out of the entire Six Nations with a knee injury, while Brad Barritt, Kyle Eastmond, Geoff Parling and Tom Wood are all expected to miss the Wales match.