England prop Phil Vickery will undergo back surgery on Saturday, meaning he is unlikely to play again this season.

The Gloucester captain has already had two major back operations during his career, with surgery now designed to relieve pressure on a nerve root which has been caused by a disc protrusion.

Gloucester head coach Dean Ryan said: "In view of the fact he has had previous surgery in this area, his recovery and rehabilitation will be carefully monitored by his specialist and the Gloucester and England medical teams.

"He faces three months' rehabilitation from the operation, and there is obviously a great likelihood it will disrupt the rest of his season. But we remain very positive that his outlook is bright."

Vickery, a Test Lion who has captained England, damaged his back during Gloucester's Guinness Premiership victory over Saracens earlier this month and will now miss the entire Six Nations Championship.

He has won 47 England caps, but underwent back operations in February 2003 and May 2004, as well as a shoulder operation in the summer of 2000. His recent injuries also include a fractured eye-socket and a broken arm.