Wasps star cut down early

London Wasps flank Tom Rees has been forced to retire from the game with immediate effect following medical advice on a knee injury he picked up during a pre-season game last year.

The 27-year-old has been medically advised to stop playing immediately despite his best efforts to rehabilitate the knee, the latest example of the popular and influential former club captain's cruel luck with injuries.

Rees said: "I'm gutted that I have been forced to retire at a time when I feel I could have contributed so much more to my club. Whilst I will always think what might have been, I will also look back on my career and what I achieved with a great deal of pride. 

London Wasps Director of rugby Dai Young said: "This is incredibly sad news for Tom and for everyone at the club. His attitude and commitment to the club remained hugely constant even when he was out injured and I know his presence will be missed around the squad."

An outstanding product of the London Wasps Academy, Rees joined Wasps in 2003, bursting onto the scene in the 2004/5 season as a highly talented young loose forward and his performances impressed enough to earn him a senior contract. He was part of the 2007 Heineken Cup winning team and in 2008 he ended another great season with an opening try in the Premiership Final win against Leicester Tigers.

On the international scene, Rees has represented England at almost all levels including Under-16, U18, U19, U20s and Senior levels as well as playing for England Sevens. 

He won 15 full senior caps winning his first as a replacement against Scotland in the 2007 Six Nations and was subsequently named in the 2007 World Cup squad. He also played in the 2008 and 2009 Six Nations though a variety of injuries hampered his chances of adding to his tally.

England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster said: "We all recognise Tom's qualities as a player and a person and it's going to be a shame that he will never be able to display his talent on the world stage again."