Nic Rouse: London Irish second row forced to retire by shoulder injury

Nic Rouse was named players' player of the season in his first year at London Irish

London Irish second row Nic Rouse has been forced to retire from professional rugby because of a shoulder injury.

The 35-year-old has made 40 appearances for the club since joining from Nottingham in 2013.

"I'm very disappointed to have to call time on my playing career," Rouse said. "London Irish is a club that is very close to my heart."

Injury has meant Rouse has been unable to make a Premiership appearance for the Exiles this season.

"I'm now looking forward to the future challenges post rugby," he added.