England forward Sam Burgess doubtful for Four Nations
- Published
Burgess is in his second season with the South Sydney Rabbitohs
England's Sam Burgess is a doubt for the Four Nations after learning he will miss the rest of the Australian rugby league season with an ankle injury.
Burgess, 22, was hurt in South Sydney's 36-24 defeat by Canterbury in April and underwent an arthroscopy on Tuesday.
It emerged he has ruptured ligaments and needs a screw inserted to stabilise the joint and help it to heal properly.
His rehabilitation will last a minimum of four months, with the Four Nations taking place in October and November.
Burgess broke the news on social networking site Twitter, external and told fans: "Thanks for all your well wishes. Opp wasn't the best. More damage than expected. Need a screw. Out for the season. Gutted."
The forward scored 17 tries in 79 games for Bradford Bulls before joining Australian National Rugby League side South Sydney Rabbitohs prior to the 2010 campaign. He has run over three tries in 26 games since arriving down under.
Burgess has represented England and Great Britain in 13 Tests and the NRL All Stars once.