Ex-Lions and Ireland starter forced to retire due to injury aged 33

After being let go by Ulster at the conclusion of the previous season, the 33-year-old has been without a team as he persevered in his efforts to fully recuperate from a persistent hip injury.

This morning he announced his retirement. “I have made the decision to retire from professional rugby after deep thought and consideration.

"A decision that has taken a considerable amount of time, it has been one of the hardest I’ve ever had to make.

“I have spent a long time reflecting on my career over the last number of weeks/months and realise how fortunate I have been to wear the most famous jerseys in the game. My brother Stephen always told me “You will play for Ireland and you will be a Lion”. This was a huge drive for me throughout my career and I am glad I can close this chapter knowing I kept my promise and made him proud.

“The last few years have been extremely testing for myself and my family, both mentally and physically. I feel I have given everything to my rugby career and I have no regrets or anything left to prove.

"It’s been a long road of rehabilitation after two hip resurfacing operations. My main focus now is my family and I am excited for this next chapter with them.

“I’d like to thank everyone at St.Mary’s College, St. Mary’s Rugby Club, Leinster Rugby, Ulster Rugby, Irish Rugby and the Lions who believed in me and helped me to achieve my dream.”

The list, compiled by Pundit Arena in 2017, features some players who were perhaps more unlucky than bad while others shouldn't have been anywhere near the British & Irish Lions squad.

Scroll down to find out who mate their lost of the worst Lions players.

PA: " 2013 and 2017 went badly for the Scot. The Lions stuck by Hogg for the second Test in 2021 but was shaky under the high-ball and had no chance to shine in attack ."

RUCK: Just doesn't seem to work out for Hoggy in the Lions with the harder he tries the tougher it gets

VERDICT: Justified

PA: "Choosing to select an enormous 44-man squad, Clive Woodward made several left field selections. None more so than a Sale Sharks hooker with only two caps for England. His technical and physical skills were not good enough for the Lions."

RUCK: He shouldn't have been near tat squad

VERDICT: Justified

"Whilst not selected for the Test team, the London Irish man must be considered one of the strangest call-ups in Lions history, joining the squad while on holiday with his family in 2013. He made no real impact to the trip but held up the scrum against the Melbourne Rebels."

PA: "Another bizarre call-up on the 2013 tour, the inside centre was brought in due to the glut of injuries sustained in the midfield. Now stranded in the international wilderness, one must assume he was fetched due to the convenience of him playing for England in Argentina."

RUCK: It may be easy to forget, but Twelvetrees was one of the most exciting talents in Europe when he was called up. He'd impressed for England in his four caps, and looked set for a bright international future. This pick feels more deemed on the use of hindsight.

VERDICT: Bit harsh

"First capped in 1984, he only represented England ten times, frequently criticised for his inability to convert his magnificent form for Bath onto the international stage. Ultimately after a torrid tour, losing six of 13 matches played, Barnes served as a perfect microcosm for its inadequate results in 1993, just not good enough."

RUCK: I wasn't born

Verdict: Up to you