Slade undergoes shoulder surgery

The 31-year-old underwent the knife earlier this week after the problem worsened whilst he was away this summer on international duty with England.

“Henry picked up a shoulder injury during the Guinness Six Nations playing for England earlier this year,” explained the Chiefs’ Director of Rugby. “The joint was stable, so Henry was able to play through the rest of the competition and resume playing with us through to the end of the 2023/24 season.

“We were aware that there was a slight issue, as were England, and it has slightly worsened throughout the summer tour. After having the shoulder re-scanned and checking in with how Henry feels about his shoulder, we’ve made the decision that now is the right time to have the operation.

“Hopefully he can use this down period to complete a strong rehab stint before we get back into rugby.”

Slade enjoyed a stellar campaign for the Chiefs last season, which included him being crowned the Gallagher Premiership Player of the Year.

His on-field displays not only helped the Chiefs to some notable victories in the European Champions Cup, but also saw him recalled to the England squad having missed out on selection for the Rugby World Cup.

Baxter added: “It’s a relatively complex operation which, at this stage, makes it a little difficult to talk about his return to play time. It is likely to be in the three-to-four-month range so unfortunately, he is going to miss a good chunk of the start of the season with us.

“History has taught us plenty of times that Henry is an incredibly good rehabber. He will return very fit, as he’s been on great form for club and country. Although this is unfortunate, we know he’s going to work very hard, and I predict he will still have a very big impact on next season both for us and for England.”

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