Wilkinson knee dislocation could let in Cipriani

Wilkinson is likely be out for several weeks after a scan today revealed he has dislocated his left knee, almost certainly eliminating him from next month's four Twickenham Tests.

The former World Cup winner was injured last night during Newcastle's 39-23 Guinness Premiership defeat by Gloucester.

Newcastle director of rugby, Steve Bates, said: "It is disappointing for Jonny to receive an injury just when he was back playing fantastic rugby, but he has enormous strength of character and I am sure he will come back stronger despite this blow."

Cipriani, meanwhile, makes his return from a serious ankle injury at outside-half for London Wasps against Bath at Adams Park tonight and his fitness is now crucial for England team manager Martin Johnson.

Cipriani is only part of the England Saxons squad as Johnson did not expect the player to come back six weeks early but the rules are that he can be drafted into the senior side if a squad member is injured.

Wilkinson hurt his knee when he was cleared out of a ruck following his tackle on Gloucester full-back Olly Morgan.

He was already due to be rested for Newcastle's EDF Energy Cup clash against Newport Gwent Dragons on Friday but the club are reluctant to speculate how long he will be out.

"We'll have to see how the injury settles," said Bates.

England play against the Pacific Barbarians, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand on successive Saturdays in November, which means Cipriani has to hit top form straight away.

The Wasps No10 has not played since damaging his left ankle against Bath — the same opponents he faces in tonight's Premiership match.

Bath will go top if they win and unbeaten Sale lose to London Irish at Reading.

Bath head coach Steve Meehan said: "We will put as much heat on him [Cipriani] as we can. The Wasps game is a one-off and we need to throw the kitchen sink at them."

Cipriani took over from Wilkinson at the end of last season's Six Nations but was forced to miss the summer tour to New Zealand.

Meanwhile, Ben Skirving takes the place of injured Chris Jack for Saracens' game at Bristol tonight.