Wales
Warren Gatland concerned for North's future after concussions
ESPN Staff
May 10, 2015
George North was knocked out as he touched down for Northampton' second try
George North was knocked out as he touched down for Northampton' second try© Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images

Wales boss Warren Gatland fears further head knocks will end George North's career.

North picked up head knocks against New Zealand last November and in Wales' Six Nations opener against England in February, and he has not played since he sustained a further concussion on Northampton duty against Wasps six weeks ago.

The Saints have already booked their place in the semi-finals of the Aviva Premiership and they want their star winger available, but Gatland understands fears further knocks will jeopardise the winger's career.

"I had a meeting with George's agent and said if I was being purely selfish I would say 'George, don't play in the last few games, get yourself right for the World Cup'," Gatland told Sunday Times. "If he gets another knock he's going to have to be out for six months or a year.

"He has been out for a considerable amount of time but he's such a young player that if he picks up two or three more of those in the next year, that's going to finish his career isn't it?

"That is a concern but I can understand Northampton being desperate to get him back playing, particularly as they get to the end of the season."

© ESPN Staff

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