Exeter's Tom Johnson announces retirement

by The TRU Team Friday 2 June 2017

Exeter forward Tom Johnson has called time on his professional rugby union career

©PA

Former England international Tom Johnson has announced his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect.

Johnson's professional rugby debut came with Chinnor RFC in 2002 and was part of Reading and Coventry before he joined Exeter Chiefs in 2007. During his stint with the Sandy Park outfit he made over 180 appearances that also includes 81 Aviva Premiership games.

The 34-year-old was a key member of the Exeter side that gained promotion to Aviva Premiership and following the success with his club, he made his England debut against South Africa in Durban in June 2012 and has overall featured in eight Tests for the red rose team.

The 34-year-old now will embark on a career as a personal fitness trainer.

"When I sit back and take stock of it all, it's been a phenomenal journey," said Johnson, who joined Exeter from Coventry in 2007.

"Being part of the club for all these years has been amazing. I have been very lucky to be part of the Chiefs during some very special years.

"Personally, I've gone from the Championship to playing for my country and then being part of a squad that's just won the Premiership. Not too many can say they've done that, so I am very proud of that."