The 26-year-old, who would have been a leading contender for the inside-centre berth in England's opener against Wales on February 5, will be in plaster for 12 weeks after breaking his right leg during Wasps' European Cup defeat to Biarritz on Saturday.

Abbott, who saw a specialist in London on Monday, had only recently returned to action following a lengthy lay-off while he recovered from shoulder surgery. But he is now battling to play again this term.

This must be very upsetting for Stuart, said Robinson, who is already without centres Mike Tindall and Will Greenwood for the Wales clash.

To suffer another injury, which will deny him the opportunity to be considered for England selection once more, is very bad luck.

He is a talented player who could have played a part in Englands Six Nations (campaign).

Robinson, meanwhile, has called Gloucester number eight Adam Balding and Leicester fly-half Andy Goode into the squad to train with Leeds Rhinos.

Leeds coach Tony Smith led Monday afternoons session in Yorkshire, while training on Tuesday will see both rugby codes playing league at Headingley.

Robinson views the sessions as key to Englands development in 2005, following a disappointing 12 months during which they lost six out of 11 games and finished third in last seasons RBS 6 Nations tournament.