Sheridan injured his shoulder playin in England’s Rugby world Cup opening match against Argentina.

Sheridan will return to England for treatment but will not be able to return if he recovers before the end of England’s campaign.

Sheridan had only just recovered from a shoulder operation and has been plagued by shoulder problems during his career.

The England medical team have been liaising with their Sale Sharks counterparts and following a scan and assessment it was decided that the injury was significant enough for him, subject to the approval of the Rugby World Cup Tournament Medical Director, to return home for further medical investigation.

Under the RWC 2011 Terms of Participation he will be unable to rejoin the England squad during the tournament.

England Team Manager Martin Johnson said: “It’s really sad for Sheri. ”

“He has been unlucky with injuries and we wish him all the best for his recovery.”

“We brought five props so we have options there and we can bring another player out but we will decide what to do about that in due course.”