Worcester Warriors scrum half Shaun Perry has been forced to retire from professional rugby after failing to recover from a knee injury.

The 34-year-old, who has also played for England, Bristol, Coventry and Dudley Kingswinford, started Warriors' first four games of this campaign before he was struck down.

Perry joined Warriors from French side CA Brive in the summer of 2011 and made 30 appearances over two seasons under the guidance of his mentor Richard Hill.

The Wolverhampton-born back won 14 international caps, featured in the 2007 Rugby World Cup and scored a sensational solo try against New Zealand on his England debut after charging down a kick and racing 60 metres to touch down.

Perry said: "It is extremely hard to accept the decision that I must retire because, having started playing at the age of seven, rugby has always been a big part of my life. I very much hope to continue to be involved in rugby in some capacity."

RPA Rugby Director David Barnes said: "Shaun epitomised the hard work which is required to become a professional rugby player and reach the highest level of the sport.

"He is old-school in as much as he fully appreciates the balance between rugby and the 'real world', having combined a career as a welder with playing for Coventry, before progressing to the Premiership with Bristol.

"Given his personality and determination to succeed I am sure he will make a seamless transition to life after rugby.

"During his playing career for both club and country Shaun has always been extremely popular amongst his playing group and will be a huge loss to the game.

"We would all like to wish Shaun and his family the very best for the future."
That future will probably include coaching. Perry has never hidden his desire to remain involved in the sport and is currently qualifying as a coach.