LIST | The 6 key Wasps players out of contract in the summer - Ruck

LIST | The 6 key Wasps players out of contract in the summer

As Wasps do not disclose contract lengths, the Coventry Live have assembled a potential list of players who could be out of contract come the end of the season – or have signed new deals but have to be announced…

1. Jimmy Gopperth

This summer he turns 37 and Ryan Mills, also an inside centre, has been recruited from Worcester Warriors. If the New Zealander does remain at Wasps, it would potentially be on reduced terms or in a dual role, allowing him to progress his coaching career too.

2. Charlie Matthews

The Rugby Paper recently reported that the second row, who joined from Harlequins, is out of contract this summer and is attracting interest from Top 14 clubs.

3. Ashley Johnson

The South African has 198 Wasps appearances to his name since joining way back in 2012. Whatever happens next with his career, his status as a Wasps legend is secured. Losing the 28-year-old would be a considerable blow.

4. Nizaam Carr 

Carr stated in an interview with CoventryLive in January his desire to become a ‘Wasps legend’. The back row turns 29 next month so this contract is a hugely important one for him. Can Wasps afford to keep him? Time will tell.

5. Thomas Young

Now the only member of the Young family at Wasps following dad Dai’s shock departure. He is a co-captain in Joe Launchbury’s absence and has made 111 appearances. Young will likely head to one of the Welsh regions in a bid to keep his international career alive and add to his three caps.

6. Marcus Watson

Mixed fortunes since he arrived at the Ricoh from Newcastle Falcons. A great player on his day, the 29-year-old would have options if he doesn’t sign a new deal with Wasps.


LIST: 10 Greatest Wasps players of All Time

They’ve been an ever-present in England’s top flight since leagues were established 30 years ago, winning six Premiership titles and two European Cups.

Therefore, deciding on just ten players was incredibly difficult.

Here we go:
10. Dean Ryan

An intimidating back five forward with all the skills. Ensured nobody ever messed with Wasps.

9.  Ted Woodward

The blockbusting England winger scored a hat-trick for Wasps as a schoolboy as they toppled Harlequins in the final of 1948 Middlesex Sevens. Played for Wasps for over 17 years, with the legend eventually captaining the side from Number 8.

8. Josh Lewsey 

Phenomenal performer. A product of the club who enjoyed a spell at Bristol before returning to the club after his university studies ended. Lewsey then went on to score 78 tries in 266 Wasps appearances.

London Wasps, Danny Cipriani and London Wasps, Josh Lewsey – Photo Mandatory by-line: Jan Kruger/Pinnacle – Tel: +44(0)1363 881025 – Mobile: 0797 1270 681 – 05/04/2009 – SPORT – RUGBY – GUINNESS PREMIERSHIP – WASPS V NEWCASTLE – Adams Park
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