Former NRL forward turned England rugby union back Ben Te'o is facing a delay to his latest comeback from injury after the Worcester centre suffered a calf problem that prevented him from training with England this week.
The former Wests Tigers, Brisbane Broncos and South Sydney star has yet to play this season in the English Premiership due to a thigh problem initially incurred during the Six Nations and he underwent surgery that ruled him out of the summer tour to South Africa.
It was hoped that he would be back for the Gallagher Premiership clash with Exeter on Saturday, but he is now facing extra time on the sidelines to rob him of additional opportunities to prove his fitness ahead of England's autumn campaign.
"Ben got a little bit of a setback with a calf injury," director of rugby Alan Solomons said.
"I know that he did not train at the England camp on Monday and Tuesday. He wouldn't be available for selection this week.
"I don't think it will be a lengthy period out. It's a little bit of a setback but there is no point putting him in and considering him for selection until he is right.
"He hasn't played until the back end of last season for us. I think it's frustrating for him as he needs to get game time to challenge for a position in the national team."
Te'o suffered a high ankle sprain that ruled him out for four months last year, preventing him from playing in the autumn series.
