Eddie Jones left precariously short at number 8 as Billy Vunipola breaks arm for third time

England number 8 Billy Vunipola has conceded breaking his arm for the third time in 2018 has ‘cut through’ him, as he follows Sam Simmonds in being ruled out of the autumn internationals.
The injury to Vunipola leaves England head coach Eddie Jones light of options at the position with Exeter Chiefs‘ Sam Simmonds rupturing his ACL and Wasps’ Nathan Hughes facing a ban when his disciplinary hearing reconvenes on Wednesday.
England welcome Southern Hemisphere heavyweights South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina next month, as well as facing 2019 Rugby World Cup hosts Japan.
And for Vunipola, the setback of breaking his arm once again comes as a major blow after suffering a broken arm in January and June of this year.
Writing to his followers on Instagram, Vunipola said: “I’ll be back, I won’t be bigger I won’t be better I’ll just be back! This ones cut me though.”
The 25-year-old sustained the injury in Saracens 13-3 victory over Glasgow Warriors in a tense, attritional Champions Cup opener.
It is not only at number 8 where Jones has matters in need of consideration. Vunipola’s brother Mako also left the match and was seen in a precautionary boot and crutches.
Saracens have confirmed the injury as a calf strain but haven’t put a stamp on how long he could be out for.
Loosehead prop could potentially be another problem area for Jones heading into the November Tests following the retirement of Joe Marler and the absence of Ellis Genge and Beno Obano.