Mike Brown is unlikely to play again this season after Harlequins revealed he would be out for six to nine months because of knee surgery.
England's most capped full-back sustained the injury in pre-season and - after struggling through two recent matches - the decision was taken for him to undergo surgery.
It is a bitter blow to the 34-year-old and his club, who have lost an influential player as they look to overcome a disappointing start to the season. Quins travel to Ulster on Saturday 7 December for a crunch Heineken Champions Cup Pool 3 clash.
"Mike has tried hard to train and play over the last few weeks but unfortunately his situation has worsened," Quins head of rugby Paul Gustard said.
"It would be damaging to his long-term knee health if he continued to try and play. Losing Mike is a big loss to the squad.
"He is of course disappointed as ultimately he wants to compete and give his all to the shirt.
"Under the guidance of our outstanding medical team led by Mike Lancaster, allied to Browny's incredible attitude to improve and his diligence to rehab, I know he will do everything he can to return to play faster than anticipated.
"We will look to see how we can use Mike in other capacities to help the squad."
Brown won the last of his 72 caps on last year's summer tour to South Africa and was overlooked by Eddie Jones for the recent World Cup in Japan.
His remote chances of selection for the global showpiece faded further when was embroiled in an off-field altercation with Ben Te'o at a training camp in August.
