Dr Simon Kemp, who is working with Wilkinson's club Newcastle Falcons to rehabilitate the fly-half, believes the start of the new Premiership season in the autumn remains a realistic target for the 24-year-old who is set to miss England's tour of New Zealand and Australia in June.

However Dr Kemp also said that it was crucial Wilkinson was not rushed back after suffering damage to a nerve at the top of his spine.

I think in terms of meaningful targets for his return there is the summer England tour which everybody feels is extremely unlikely, although there has been no statement made, Dr Kemp said.

Then there is the start of Newcastle's season and there is a feeling that is still a very realistic goal.

What we don't know is whether the speed of his present recovery will stay through the whole of his recovery.

It's fair to say that following an injury to a nerve the speed of recovery is more variable than with a bone injury.

Nerve injuries are less predictable in their recovery.

Wilkinson has not played since suffering the injury in a clash against Northampton Saints on December 28, and has not featured in a Test match for his country since kicking the last-minute drop goal at the World Cup final in Sydney back in November.