England could be without captain Steve Borthwick for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations showdown with France through injury.
The 30-year-old lock is struggling with a nagging knee problem and could be forced to sit out the trip to Paris.
However, England team manager Martin Johnson is optimistic that his skipper will be cleared to face the French.
"Steve has gone for treatment for a long-term wear and tear issue," the former Leicester Tigers lock explained. "Hopefully it is just precautionary and he will be fine."
Indeed, Johnson hinted that Borthwick, who is likely to be replaced by Northampton's Courtney Lawes if he is ruled out, would probably be willing to play through the pain in order to lead his team out in Saint Denis.
Johnson is scheduled to name his starting line-up on Wednesday at noon.