Monday 3 February 2020 10:51, UK
Harlequins captain Chris Robshaw has confirmed he will leave the Premiership club at the end of the season.
The 33-year-old flanker has made 289 appearances for Harlequins since making his professional debut in 2007 and was part of the side that won the Premiership title in 2012.
The former England captain has suggested he will continue his career away from Harlequins after 16 years at the Twickenham Stoop.
"As a boy, wearing my oversized Harlequins shirt, I could never have imagined I would be fortunate enough to play for the team I admired the most," said Robshaw in a statement on the club's website.
"Which is why it has been a particularly difficult decision for me to leave the club after 16 extraordinary years.
"I will be hanging up my Harlequins shirt at the end of the season. And though there is so much I will miss about playing for this team, I will always be eternally grateful and proud for having had the chance to stand alongside such extraordinary players. All the while, being supported by the best fans in the world.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the coaches and everyone at Harlequins who have helped me achieve my dreams, the Harlequins Academy and my incredible teammates without whom none of this would have been possible.
"Despite all the intense training hours, and the emotional and physical demands of the job, it never felt like work. Putting on the Harlequins shirt will always remain the greatest privilege of my professional career.
"I also want to thank my friends, family and most importantly my wife Camilla who has always been my greatest supporter.
"I look forward to the next chapter in my life, and will keep you posted. But wherever I end up next, I will do my utmost to make you proud.
"The Stoop and Harlequins will always be my home. Let's enjoy the next few months."
