Injury forces Gloucester lock James Hudson to retire

Gloucester lock James Hudson has confirmed his decision to retire from professional rugby on medical advice.

The 34-year-old subsequently failed to recover from a severe knee injury which he sustained during the pre-season friendlies last year. In his 13-year professional rugby career, Hudson has featured in over 250 matches and has featured for Bath, London Irish, Newcastle Falcons and Gloucester Rugby

During his stint, Hudson has also captained Newcastle Falcons.

Despite his retirement from professional rugby, Hudson, will now take up the role of performance nutritionist with Gloucester.

"I am o bviously disappointed that I've had to hang up my boots," Hudson told Gloucester's official club website.

"But I know that I gave it everything in a bid to get back on the pitch, and I would like to place on record my thanks to the Gloucester medical staff, who have been terrific.

"I feel proud and very lucky to have been able to play for 15 years as a professional, and I always knew that it would come to an end one day.

"I am now looking forward to starting a new chapter, and I am delighted that part of that will be with Gloucester."