Aviva Premiership
Booth powerless to prevent departures
ESPNscrum Staff
January 10, 2012
London Irish fullback Delon Armitage claims a high ball, London Irish v Racing Metro, Heineken Cup, Madejski stadium, Reading, England, December 17, 2011
Delon Armitage could lose his place in England's Elite Players Squad © Getty Images
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London Irish head coach Toby Booth admits he is powerless to prevent the departure of star duo Delon Armitage and Nick Kennedy.

Both Armitage and Kennedy have been linked with moves to Top 14 side Toulon when their contracts expire at the end of the season.

Armitage's brother, Steffon, is half way through a two-year deal at Toulon and the England fullback could be tempted to follow suit, especially if his omitted from England's 2012 Six Nations squad. Armitage's place is under threat from the fine form of Northampton's Ben Foden and Harlequins' Mike Brown.

Kennedy, who last played for England in 2009, will also be anxiously watching Stuart Lancaster's squad announcement on Wednesday and could be convinced to move abroad should he fail to gain an international recall.

"It's now with their agents," Booth told BBC. "In Delon's case there is a break cause in his contract, which he can initiate so we know where we are and we are now waiting for Delon's response.

"I'm sure the Elite Players Squad announcements will have a consequence on his decision. Kendo has always been at the club in the 10 years I have been here. I'm sure if he decided to leave the club it will not be a decision he will make lightly."

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