Dallaglio vows to bow out on a high

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Dallaglio denies his retirement is in response to his attack on England head coach Brian Ashton after the 2007 World Cup and believes it is the natural time to walk away after 85 caps. Ashton names his England squad for the Six Nations on 9 January.

The 35-year-old former England captain, a key member of the 2003 World Cup-winning team, retired from Test rugby in 2004 before coming back and he played in the 2007 Cup final loss to South Africa.

He helped Wasps dominate English rugby, guiding the club to two Heineken Cup titles, and they are attempting to defend their European crown in his final season. He joined the club in 1990 and will move into the marketing and commercial side of the operation before trying his hand at coaching.

Dallaglio said: "I want to win more silverware with Wasps in my final season and this is the right moment to retire.

"I am certain it is the right decision and any talk about my book and the comments about Brian Ashton are a smokescreen. I spoke to Brian at the time and explained I was unhappy with the way it had come out.

"When the England flame goes out then the club one does as well, that's the way I feel. Instinctively, as a player, you know when it's the right time - and that's now.

"I am enjoying my rugby and feel I could play another year with Wasps but it's time to move on.

"I have enjoyed a marvellous run and been the proudest Englishmen every time I wore my country's jersey.

"However, I believe my international career has run its course and it's time for me to step aside and make room for the young guns kicking down the door."