Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, the England and Exeter wing, has finally undergone surgery on his dislocated shoulder. The 22-year-old, who has been dealing with this injury since December, is now racing against time to make the British and Irish Lions tour this summer.
The decision regarding Feyi-Waboso’s treatment was delayed for two months, with England’s head coach, Steve Borthwick, having the final say. After signing an enhanced Elite Player Squad contract in October, Borthwick was given authority over all sports science and medical matters concerning the player.
Feyi-Waboso had initially hoped to rehabilitate the injury and possibly play a part in England’s Six Nations campaign while also impressing Lions head coach Andy Farrell ahead of the tour to Australia. However, after weeks of rehab and training, the winger announced via an Instagram post that he had opted for surgery, posting three images with the caption, “minor setbacks, we go again…”
This decision comes as a blow to Exeter, who had hoped the player might return to action and contribute to the final months of the season. Feyi-Waboso has not played since December 21, when he injured his shoulder against Sale Sharks.
A Gamble That Led to the Worst Possible Outcome
The saga surrounding Feyi-Waboso’s injury contrasts with a more straightforward situation for Northampton’s George Furbank, who fractured his arm in December. Unlike Feyi-Waboso, Furbank underwent surgery immediately and was expected to miss the Six Nations, with no confusion or delays.
Feyi-Waboso’s shoulder injury turned into a complex situation, as various parties involved were uncertain whether rehabilitation or surgery was the best course of action. With the looming Lions tour, Feyi-Waboso’s attempt to rush his recovery felt like a gamble, and now it seems the worst possible outcome has occurred for all parties involved:
- England – The team will definitely be without Feyi-Waboso for the upcoming Six Nations fixtures, including against Italy and Wales. With Borthwick holding the final say on medical matters, a clearer decision early on could have set expectations more realistically.
- Feyi-Waboso – While surgery was the best option to avoid further complications, the delay means he’ll miss crucial time for both his club and the national team. His recovery timeline suggests he could return by mid-May, but it may be too late to make a significant impact for Exeter or to impress Farrell for the Lions tour.
- Exeter – The club’s season has been tough, and Feyi-Waboso’s absence has made it harder. Had surgery taken place earlier, the winger could have been back by April, helping Exeter in their push for the Champions Cup spots.
Feyi-Waboso’s ambition to return quickly for the Six Nations and Lions tour was understandable, but now he risks missing both opportunities while also leaving Exeter in a tough spot.
