Former England and Lion winger Ugo Monye has been slammed for his ‘unacceptable’ comments in relation to head injuries in rugby.
Speaking on BT Sport, Monye said: “I think we’re good at recognising concussion. I think it’s important to state that mistakes will be made, absolutely. You’ve got people on the pitch and people sat in the stands who are watching it on replay.
“In terms of returning too quickly, that’s impossible. There is a clear framework and guideline which is used. You can’t even start until you’re cleared of a headache and then it’s a graduated return to play.”
Progressive Rugby, who are led by former Canadian international Jamie Cudmore, ex-England back-rower James Haskell, former Wales flanker Alix Popham and senior medical figures from the game, have hit back at these comments.
The group said on Twitter: “Ugo Monye stating as fact that it’s ‘impossible’ to return to play from a brain injury too quickly in the elite game, just days after an enquiry conceded Tomas Francis was allowed to return to the pitch… during England v Wales. Sorry Ugo, that’s unacceptable.”
They added: “We should add a thank you to Ben Kay who made some excellent points and, most importantly, made it very clear that head guards do not provide protection against concussion. This is a common misconception that needs reinforcing.”
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Dan Carter ranks the three best rugby stadiums for atmosphere
#3. Twickenham Stadium, London
Carter’s personal favourite moment from his career comes from New Zealand’s 2015 Rugby World Cup final triumph against Australia at Twickenham however, as he slotted a drop goal from 40 metres out to stem the tide of a Wallabies comeback.
“All such special memories but hard to go past the RWC final drop goal,” Carter tweeted, in response to a Rugby World Cup post asking fans what their favourite moment from the All Blacks fly-half was.
He added: “Twickenham, the home of rugby, was certainly bouncing that night.