England international Mark Wilson announces retirement

England international Mark Wilson has announced his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect.

A product of Newcastle Academy, Wilson made his senior debut with the Falcons in 2010 and has gone on to play 237 games scoring 42 tries. He also had a loan stint with Sale Sharks in 2019 where he played in two Premiership games.

His ongoing problem with knee following which he had a surgery has restricted his appearance to just one game this season.

“I’ve been involved with the Falcons since I was a 14-year-old coming over from Kendal for academy training, and I’ve got some amazing memories. You never really know how you’re going to end your career, but for me, this is my time to call it a day," he said.

“My injury has made me re-assess where I’m at from a career point of view.

“That has been in the background and been in my thoughts quite a lot, and whilst it hasn’t been the case that the injury has physically ended my career in its own right, it’s certainly been one of the main things which has added to my decision.”

Wilson made his England debut in 2017 and has gone on to play 23 Tests with his last appearance coming during last year's Six Nations. He was also part of the England squad that went on to reach the final of the 2019 World Cup and winning the Six Nations Championship in 2020.

“We’re all gutted and disappointed that Mark is retiring from rugby, but he has made a massive contribution to this club," said Newcastle Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards.

“He epitomises what we are about as someone who has come through our academy system, and can look back and be proud about what was a fantastic career. I’m sure I speak for everybody associated with the Falcons when I say a heartfelt thank you for everything he has given us during his time here.

“Mark is a team man who has put his body on the line time and time again, he embodies our homegrown philosophy and we all felt an enormous sense of pride when he went on to do so well on the international stage.

"He has inspired so many local youngsters by coming through our academy and reaching such heights, and I’m sure he won’t be a stranger around the place.”