England team boss Martin Johnson has revealed Quins scrum-half Danny Care would have been in his 30-man World Cup squad had he not been injured.

Care's World Cup dream died this week after undergoing surgery on a toe joint problem suffered in Saturday's 19-9 defeat in Wales.

The 24-year-old, who featured in both warm-up games against the Welsh, will be out of action for a minimum of six weeks meaning he will miss hostilities in New Zealand.

And Johnson admitted Care had done enough to earn his place on the plane.

“We are all hugely disappointed for Danny who has worked extremely hard and has been an important part of the squad throughout our Rugby World Cup preparations," he said,.

"He featured in both warm-up fixtures and was on course for selection, so this injury is really disappointing for him personally and for us as a squad."

Quins skipper Chris Robshaw and winger Ugo Monye may also see their World Cup hopes extinguished next week, but they will not be the only ones to miss out.

Prop James Johnston, who made 23 appearances last season, spent the summer with the Samoa squad preparing for New Zealand, but was sent packing at the end of July.

The 25-year-old came off the bench in the Pacific Nations Cup clash with Tonga ealier this summer, but didn't get the chance to feature in his country's shock 32-23 win over Australia last month.

But the twice capped international, who starred in Tuesday's pre-season win over Esher, remains philosophical about his international future.

"The training in Samoa went really well and it was really enjoyable especially with players from all across Europe coming together," he said.

"I was pretty disappointed to be let go but everyone seemed to take their chance when it was given to them.

"I'm still young and hopefully there'll be another chance that comes along."