English enforcer Sam Burgess is set to miss the Lions tour of New Zealand and Papua New Guinea after succumbing to a shoulder injury he picked up in South Sydney’s recent loss to Canberra.

“It’s very disappointing. He’s had an ongoing problem with his shoulder which will probably require surgery,” said Rugby Football League rugby director Kevin Sinfield.

“He’s absolutely gutted, as are we.

“We’ve seen how special it is to all our players, Sam having been one of the chosen few previously who have worn the shirt and did outstandingly well in it.

“He’s a leader and a real big character in that dressing room and on the field he’s world class so we’ll certainly miss him.

“It will provide somebody else with an opportunity and hopefully they can grab it.”

Eleven players from the English World Cup Nines squad will join the British outfit for the upcoming tour.