Rugby: London Wasps flanker Joe Worsley is to retire from the sport after failing to recover from a neck injury.

The England backrow, who has been at Wasps for the past 18 years, suffered the problem last season - and despite going through rehab he has been unable to train fully in recent months.

Worsley, who capped 78 times by England and went on to star for the British and Irish Lions, told the club's official site: "Last season I suffered an injury to my neck that has effectively ended my career.

"Since March I have been following medical and rehab advice but it didn't help, and restarting contact work during the England World Cup Camp made it obvious that I could not continue.

"My life as a rugby player started at Welwyn Under-9s 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."

Worsley has enjoyed a trophy-laden career at Wasps, winning Heineken Cup twice, the Premiership title four times and the Powergen Cup on three occasions. On top of that he was part of the England squad which won the World Cup in 2003.

The 34-year-old went on to make more than 300 appearances for Wasps, while he was awarded the MBE. And Wasps owner Steve Hayes admitted it was a sad day for the club to see Worsley retire.

"Joe is a real legend at this club and we are all very sad to see his playing days come to an end," he said. "He has been a fantastic servant to Wasps and played a huge role in much of the club's success. He also was a superb representative on the international stage, becoming a key figure for England and inspiring many budding young players with his tenacious back-row play.

"He will leave big boots to fill and we wish him all the very best as he moves on with the next stage of his life. I hope that we will still see him regularly around Adams Park and he knows he is welcome back here anytime."

The Rugby Players Association chief executive Damian Hopley, who played alongside Worsley during his time at Wasps, added: "It is such sad news when any player has to retire prematurely and I am very sorry to learn that Joe's injury has meant his playing days have ended.

"As a former team-mate, we always sensed that Joe had all the necessary attributes and humility to become an outstanding international player and he played a leading role in both Wasps and England successes over the years. Joe was a fantastic professional and leaves behind tremendous memories of an exceptional career which saw him lift every major trophy in English, European and international rugby.

"On behalf of all The RPA members, I would like to wish Joe and his family every success for his life after rugby and we will be there to support Joe throughout that transition."