Wilkinson has not played for England since kicking the winning drop goal in the World Cup final in November and had surgery at the start of this year to correct a long-standing problem in his neck and shoulder.

"I met Jonny in Newcastle yesterday to discuss how he's progressing," Woodward said on Friday.

"He hasn't played a competitive game since last December and is clearly not in a position to come back into the squad for the tour this summer. I'm looking forward to welcoming him back in the autumn."

Woodward is now hopeful the Newcastle star will be fit for England's game against Canada at Twickenham in November - the warm-up for the rematch against Australia on the first anniversary of the World Cup final. England's other long-standing fly-half, Paul Grayson of Northampton Saints, has decided to retire from international rugby with immediate effect, confirming he will not be available for the tour.

Paul Grayson, Wilkinson's under-study at the World Cup, has meanwhile retired from the international scene because of family commitments.

"I have absolutely no regrets," Grayson said.

"I am delighted with my international career but I don't want to leave my wife and kids any more." Grayson is the sixth member of England's World Cup winning squad to retire from the international game after scoring 400 points for England in 32 internationals, leaving him second only to Wilkinson.

Woodward said: "I spoke with Paul earlier this week and fully understand and respect his decision to retire. He has been a wonderful presence on the pitch for England these past nine years and I hope to see him return in a coaching capacity in the future. Grayson said he intended to play for his club Northampton for one more season.

- AFP 2004.