Hampson was rushed to Northampton General Hospital on Tuesday after an accident in training with England Under-21s at Franklin's Gardens.

The incident occurred during a scrummaging session and 20-year-old Hampson underwent surgery to realign his neck using traction.

A statement issued by the hospital read:

"The medical teams have assessed Matt's condition and the treatment plan is for him to be transferred to Stoke Mandeville Hospital for an operation to reduce and stabilise the fracture in his neck.

"Following this operation Matt will be coming back to Northampton for further care.

"Matt's parents are with him. The family wish to thank everyone for their concerns and good wishes and hope you will respect their privacy at this time."

Hampson has been a regular in the England squad for the Under-21 Six Nations and he started at tight-head in last week's victory over Italy.

He was busy preparing for Friday's final match, against Scotland in Northampton, when the accident occurred.

Hampson had been targeted as a player with a bright future after signing for Leicester's Academy at Under-16 level.

He became an apprentice at the beginning of the 2001-02 season and is one of five development squad players who trained with the Leicester first team during the summer.