Morgan damaged his right shoulder during England's record 43-13 RBS 6 Nations Championship defeat against Ireland in Dublin last Saturday, and was forced off after just 30 minutes at Croke Park.

The 21-year-old, who has won two caps, will now undergo an operation on Monday to repair labral damage following consultation with a specialist.

He faces 12 weeks' sidelined, and with his Gloucester and England colleague Iain Balshaw still recovering from a groin problem, Wasps wing Josh Lewsey looks likely to wear the England number 15 shirt against France on Sunday week.

Morgan's injury is the latest in a series of problems to hit England this season, with Sale Sharks pair Charlie Hodgson and Andrew Sheridan absent since the autumn Tests, and hooker Steve Thompson already ruled out of the World Cup.

Balshaw and Jason Robinson, meanwhile, both missed the Ireland clash.

Millfield School product Morgan made his Test debut in the 42-20 victory over Scotland last month, then Balshaw returned to face Italy before being hurt, and Morgan took over at Croke Park.

Gloucester head coach Dean Ryan said: "It is an horrendous blow for Olly, Gloucester and England.

"In the last 12 months he has really matured rapidly as a Premiership player.

"He has outstanding potential to be an international-quality full-back and we wish him all the very best for the operation and his recovery.

"We, at Gloucester, will certainly miss a player of Olly's ability, control and bravery at this crucial stage of the season and it is obviously a major blow to England."