Manu Tuilagi, a center for Sale, was given a four-game suspension for misconduct in Saturday’s defeat to Northampton, but he may yet be fit for England’s last Six Nations match against Ireland.

At a citing hearing, Tuilagi, 31, received the suspension for elbowing Saints player Tommy Freeman in the head.

If he participates in a World Rugby coaching course to enhance tackle technique, the suspension will be reduced to three games.

Although Tuilagi has 50 England caps, he has yet to play in the Six Nations.

He was not included in the starting lineup for either Scotland’s initial defeat or Italy’s subsequent victory under new head coach Steve Borthwick.

This Saturday in Cardiff, England will play Wales. On March 11 at Twickenham, they will play France.

If necessary, Tuilagi would be able to play again against Ireland on March 18.

In addition, Sale’s Premiership matches against Exeter Chiefs, Saracens, and London Irish will be missed by the former Leicester center.

If he doesn’t participate in the coaching intervention program, he will also miss their European Challenge Cup match against Cardiff Blues on April 1.