British and Irish Lions

The 25-year-old needed the operation to repair a decompression of two discs in his neck after getting injured on England's summer tour of Australia.

Titterrell said: "I am disappointed, but it's all part of the game and I have to get on with things as best I can.

"I'll miss the pre-season friendly fixtures and am hoping to be back in contention early in October."

Titterrell is expecting a tough campaign as Sale look to defend the Premiership title they picked up after beating Leicester at Twickenham in May.

He added; "This season will be tough for us because as champions, every team will be out to beat us.

"The squad are all working hard in training, and the boys are confident of being able to challenge for the title again."

Sam Warburton says he is 'absolutely delighted' after being chosen to lead The British & Irish Lions in Saturday's first Test match against the Qantas Wallabies.

British & Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland admits he and his assistants faced some tough selection calls when picking the side to face the Qantas Wallabies in Saturday's first Test.

Less than four kilometres away from the Suncorp Stadium, venue for the opening Test between the British & Irish Lions and Qantas Wallabies on Saturday, lies the grave of the man who took the starring role in the first international between the two teams in 1899.