England forward Brett Ferres has been ruled out of the Ladbrokes Four Nations after picking up a calf injury during training in London.
Ferris, 30, who plays for Leeds Rhinos and featured in the 2013 World Cup, 2014 Four Nations and 2015 International Series win against New Zealand, will now return to Yorkshire to be assessed by the Rhinos’ medical team in order to plan his treatment and recovery.
“Brett is a key member of the senior squad and he’s hugely disappointed to be missing out,” said England head coach Wayne Bennett.
“He had been working hard with the train-on squad and has continued to do so in our camp. Unfortunately, he suffered this injury in training which meant he will not be able to train effectively for a few weeks.
“Just like all the other players, I know he was looking forward to the challenge ahead with England.
“Myself and all the England team wish Brett all the best with his recovery and look forward to seeing him in action next season.”
Ferres’s Leeds Rhinos team-mate Stevie Ward will replace him in the 24-man squad ahead of England’s International Test against France on Saturday, October 22 and the start of the Ladbrokes Four Nations on Saturday, October 29 against New Zealand.
A full report and photos from this Saturday’s game between France and England will feature in Monday’s League Express.