England's preparations for their must-win Four Nations rugby league match against Australia have been dealt a blow with the loss of injured centre Michael Shenton.
One of England's best in their disappointing 24-10 opening loss to New Zealand, Shenton suffered ankle ligament damage and has been ruled out of the clash with the Kangaroos in Melbourne on Sunday night.
England coach Steve McNamara said the injury would be assessed again in the next few days before a decision was made about whether his tournament was over.
England's other centre, Ryan Atkins, was also injured in a collision with a goal-post, however he said he was a certain starter in Melbourne.
Leroy Cudjoe or Tony Clubb are in line to fill Shenton's position.
With Australia, who thrashed PNG, and New Zealand entering the second week of the tournament with wins under their belts, England must beat the Kangaroos to keep their slim hopes of a finals berth alive.
