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James Simpson-Daniel retires due to injury
ESPN Staff
September 2, 2014
James Simpson-Daniel has been at Gloucester since 2001 © Getty Images
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Gloucester wing James Simpson-Daniel has been forced to retire from rugby after failing to recover from an ankle injury.

Simpson-Daniel, who scored 15 points in 10 appearances for England between 2002 and 2007, has been sidelined since last November when he suffered an horrific ankle injury in an LV= Cup fixture against Newcastle Falcons.

"When I was given the diagnosis by the specialist, they were obviously the last words I wanted to hear," Simpson-Daniel, 32, said. "But I know that I've given it everything and I can't praise the Gloucester medical staff highly enough.

"I don't think it's really sunk in yet to be honest. But I've had a really good trot, I can't have any complaints. It would have been nice to have won more trophies with Gloucester, but I've got so many fantastic memories from my time in the game.

"I've loved every minute of my time with the club, played and worked with so many great people, made so many friends and, of course, played my home games at the best home ground in club rugby, Kingsholm.

"That's what I'll miss the most. That roar as you exit the tunnel and run on to the pitch. The Gloucester supporters have always been fantastic to me and I'll always be grateful.

"But it's now time to start on a new chapter, I'll take my time and consider my options. But, whatever I do, Gloucester will always be a huge part of my life."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd

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