English player Joe Worsley hangs up boots - Rugby Union news
Joe Worsley, the former English player has decided to quit rugby with immediate effect due to a devastating injury to his neck. Worsley told the media on November 14 that he has taken the tough decision after failing to recover from an old neck injury and
he thinks its the right time to say good-bye to rugby immediately. The 34-year-old flanker made his international debut in 1999 for England and has participated in 78 tests for his team.
The former flanker told the media that he was suffering from neck injury since March and still he feels uncomfortable to go out on to the field. He was dropped from Rugby England's World Cup squad due to the same injury earlier this year.
He remained successful to make his place into the national side very early in his career as he was included in RWC 1999 squad just after playing a few games with the team. He was given a bench role in the initial matches, however he made his first appearance
in the global show against Tonga.
While also delivered brilliant performances against South Africa and Australia in Investec Challenge matches played in 2001.
Worsley started off his rugby career back in 1993 when he joined London Wasps. He has played more than 200 domestic games for Wasps and was still part of side before making the big decision of his retirement.
Talking to the reporters on the eve of announcing his call time, Worsley said that he was satisfied with his playing career. He added that, “My life as a rugby player started at Welwyn under-nines and finished in an England training session -- I want to
say thanks to everyone who helped me on that path. I'm proud of what I achieved and how I played the game.”
The player also said that, “Last season I suffered an injury to my neck that has effectively ended my career. Restarting contact work during the England World Cup camp made it obvious that I could not continue. Since March I have been following medical and
rehab advice but it hasn't helped.”
English manager Martin Johnson has applauded the outgoing Worsley for his excellent services to the team.
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