England’s Delon Armitage will not play in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against France after being handed a one-match ban for a “dangerous high tackle”.
The winger was cited after a tackle on Scotland’s Chris Paterson during last Saturday’s win and will be available for selection should England make the semi-finals. They are 8/15 with bookmaker to get past France and reach the last four.
The absence of the London Irish half-back could mean a return for Sale winger Mark Cueto, who was omitted against Scotland.
England manager Martin Johnson said: “It’s a shame to lose Delon as he has played well but these things happen and we have some quality wings in Mark Cueto and Matt Banahan to choose from.”
England are sweating over the fitness of Mike Tindall, who is suffering from a dead leg, and Jonny Wilkinson, who is receiving treatment on an arm injury.
“Both are responding to treatment so we will just have to see where they are up to when we get back into weights and light training,” added Johnson.