England have confirmed that full-back Sam Tomkins will play no part in the three-Test series against New Zealand due to a knee injury.

The 26-year-old, who will return to Wigan Warriors next season following a two-year spell in the NRL, has been struggling with a knee problem since August.

"It is a great shame that Sam will miss the series against New Zealand," said head coach Steve McNamara. "We wanted to give him every chance to confirm his fitness but it wasn't to be. Sam is devastated to miss out. He was looking forward to the month ahead with England and making a huge impact.

"His recent rehabilitation programme was designed to give him the best chance of a full recovery and playing for England, but the important thing now is for him to have the injury re-assessed and to get himself ready for full fitness as soon as possible."

England will face the Kiwis over a two-week spell, which gets underway on November 1 at the Olympic Stadium in London.