Exeter Chiefs coach Rob Baxter has revealed that prop Craig Mitchell is expected to face a lengthy spell on the sidelines through injury.
The Welsh international recently suffered a shoulder problem while playing for the Chiefs' 'A' side.
"Mitch is looking a pretty long-term injury," Baxter told Premiership Rugby's official website. "We haven't finalised the exact issue with Craig yet, but he is likely to require an operation."
Exeter continue their Aviva Premiership campaign on Sunday when they host champions Leicester Tigers.