SHARKS hooker Andy Titterrell is back on the road to recovery after an operation on his neck - but he will miss the start of the Premiership season.

The injury rounded off what was a pretty disappointing summer for the 25-year-old Londoner after he was sidelined during the Test matches in Australia.

But despite his setbacks, Titterrell is determined to work his way back into the championship- winning Sale side and stake his claim for an England place in time for the World Cup next year.

He said: "It was good to be involved with England again and meet up with the lads and the new management team.

"I was disappointed not to make the first Test after I had helped Sharks win the Premiership title, and then I was ruled out of the second Test through injury.

"Then to be told I needed an operation to repair a decompression of two discs in my neck when I got home was just twisting the knife a bit.

"But that's all part of the game and I have to get on with things as best I can.

"I'll miss all the pre-season friendlies and probably the first five league games but am hoping to be back for October.

Contention

"Hopefully, I can get back to my best with Sale and then work my way back into contention for an England place in time for the World Cup."

Titterrell was used on a rotation basis last season with Frenchman Sebastien Bruno but is a useful player to have in the pack as he has also turned his hand to playing in the back row.

His injury has been a blow to Sharks as they look to defend the Guinness Premiership title they won at the end of May by beating Leicester at Twickenham, the same side they must play in the first game of the season at Welford Road on September 2.

Titterrell added: "As champions we are under a lot more pressure but having recruited well over the summer I think we have a squad which can once again challenge for the title.

"Everyone is going to be out to beat us, but as we found last season, there are no such things as easy games in the Premiership.

"It's down to us to maintain those standards which helped us win the title.

"The guys are very confident and there is a great atmosphere within the club.

"Expectations are high, but we feel we can live up to them."

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