Aviva Premiership
Fourie ruled out until 2012
ESPNscrum Staff
September 19, 2011
Injured England flanker Hendre Fourie watches training at Hale School, Perth, Australia, June 10, 2010
Supporters of Sale will have to wait until the New Year to see Fourie in action © Getty Images
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Sale flanker Hendre Fourie has been ruled out until the New Year putting to bed any notion of him potentially joining the England squad as a replacement for the crocked Andrew Sheridan.

Fourie has been forced to undergo surgery on his shoulder and is anticipating returning to the field in January. The news will come as a blow to Sale who have yet to see the openside run out after his summer switch from relegated Leeds.

Sale's executive director of rugby Diamond said, "Hendre injured himself playing for England against Ireland before the World Cup. He limped off with a hamstring strain but has since been struggling with a shoulder injury that will require surgery. His rehabilitation will start immediately after surgery and we expect him back early in the New Year."

Meanwhile Sale received a boost with the news that former All Blacks centre Sam Tuitupou is due to link up with the rest of the team later this week. Tuitopou spent last season with Munster and was due to arrive in Manchester in time for the new campaign but his arrival was delayed due to paperwork.

Diamond said: "It's taken a couple of weeks longer than we had hoped but now that Sam has all the necessary paperwork he will soon be leading the team out as our appointed team captain."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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