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Barritt's year is over

England centre Brad Barritt has been ruled out of his country's November internationals after undergoing foot surgery, his club Saracens announced on Sunday.

Barritt started last weekend's 42-20 Premiership victory over London Irish at Twickenham, but was omitted from the match-day squad for Sunday's clash with Gloucester as a result of the operation.

The South African-born 27-year-old has had corrective surgery on damaged ligaments in his foot and is expected to return by Christmas.

"Brad is a tremendously important player for us and for England," Saracens director Mark McCall said.

"He will be missed through the autumn, although we have talented players ready to step forward.

"Brad is on the road to recovery and we look forward to his return later this season."

England are due to play Australia on November 2, Argentina on November 9 and New Zealand on November 16.

Barritt's strength in defence meant he was a likely starter but England head coach Stuart Lancaster must now field a new-look midfield partnership.

Manu Tuilagi, Billy Twelvetrees and Kyle Eastmond are the remaining fit centres in Lancaster's elite player squad.

Barritt is the second player to be ruled out of England's up-coming Test schedule in five days after flank Tom Croft underwent season-ending knee surgery last week.

AFP

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