Jonny Wilkinson's comeback from his latest knee injury has been delayed for at least another week.
The England captain, who have missed the whole of the last two RBS 6 Nations championships, had hoped to feature on the bench for Newcastle in Saturdays European Cup quarter final against French champions Stade Francais in Paris.
But Newcastle rugby director Rob Andrew decided on Saturday morning not to risk either Wilkinson or foot injury victim Wales' Colin Charvis in his match-day 22.
Wilkinson though is thought to have a realistic hope of being involved against Newcastles Premiership opponents Worcester at Kingston Park on Sunday week.