Martin Castrogiovanni: Leicester Tigers prop did not want to leave

Martin Castrogiovanni says he still does not have a club for next season, but had to leave Leicester Tigers to try to get regular rugby.

The 31-year-old Italy prop only started seven Premiership games and one Heineken Cup match this season.

He had hoped to join French club Toulon, but a deal could not be agreed.

"I am really sad I am leaving. I didn't want to leave, but I want to play and I am not playing at all," Castrogiovanni told BBC Radio Leicester.

"I don't have a contract with anyone. I am just leaving Leicester. I signed my release form because I want to play rugby."

Castrogiovanni had a year to run on his contract, but when it looked like he was leaving, Tigers started to plan for next season.

The club were initially eager to keep Castrogiovanni, but decided to move on because they did not want to miss out on the replacement they have lined up.

Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal has been quoted as saying that Leicester wanted too much money.