BATH, England (AP) — England flanker Sam Underhill will miss the Six Nations after an ankle operation.

Underhill's club, Bath, said on Friday he will be out of action for up to three months, and will miss most of the English Premiership, too.

Underhill damaged ankle ligaments on Dec. 30 while playing for Bath against Leicester. A specialist decided he needed an operation, ruling him out until mid-April.

He became a key figure for England in the November internationals, including a man-of-the-match effort against New Zealand. He played three tests then and has nine caps overall.

Meanwhile, England lock Maro Itoje returns from injury for Saracens this weekend following a knee injury in the November tests.

England starts the Six Nations in Ireland on Feb. 2, and finishes against Scotland at Twickenham on March 16.