Jonny in doubt for All Blacks

London - Jonny Wilkinson's shoulder injury is not as serious as feared but the flyhalf remains doubtful for England's clash with New Zealand next week, manager Martin Johnson confirmed on Wednesday.

Wilkinson underwent a scan on Tuesday after reporting to England's training camp with a sore shoulder following his match for Toulon against Stade Francais in the French championship last weekend.

While the scan has allayed fears that Wilkinson may require surgery, the veteran No 10 is still touch and go to be fit for the November 6 showdown with the All Blacks at Twickenham, Johnson said.

"Jonny has seen the specialist and had the results from the scan. He doesn't need surgery and is receiving rehab from the medical team," Johnson said.

"We have to work out what the injury means in terms of rugby going into next week. He will be assessed day-to-day and we will have a better idea towards the end of the week where he is.

"I'd describe it as wear and tear. Like a lot of these injuries, it is not as clear-cut as all that and you have to work out what the results mean for his ability to play rugby at the highest level."

Johnson did not rule out the possibility that Wilkinson may yet recover in time to face New Zealand.

"There is not a game on Saturday for us. It would be pretty clear-cut if there was," said Johnson.

Wilkinson, the hero of England's 2003 World Cup triumph, has been ravaged by injuries since that career highpoint seven years ago.

However the playmaker has been in sparkling form for Toulon this season which had made him the early favourite to win a starting berth against the All Blacks ahead of Toby Flood.

England's preparations have also been beset by injury scares concerning centre Riki Flutey and lock Simon Shaw, who have not trained this week.