Rees endured three shoulders injuries in an 18-month period in 2009 but it was eventually a serious knee injury that forced to Rees to call time on his hugely promising career aged just 27.

He was capped 15 times for England and played in Martin Johnson’s first game in charge against New Zealand and was tipped to have a long and successful career under the former World Cup winner.

It wasn’t to be though for Rees, who joins the likes of former England colleague Harry Ellis in having to call a premature halt to his international and club career.

"I'm gutted that I have been forced to retire at a time when I feel I could have contributed so much more to my club," he told the Wasps website.

"Whilst I will always think what might have been, I will also look back on my career and what I achieved with a great deal of pride.

"Over the last nine years I have been privileged to take part in my hobby for a living, and I am extremely grateful for that opportunity.

"I would especially like to thank everyone at London Wasps. They have given me such tremendous support at all times through my career but particularly of late, and I am sorry that I won't get to repay them for that.

"Finally, I would like to thank my friends and family for their constant support through everything I have done."

England head coach Lancaster said: "We all recognise Tom's qualities as a player and a person and it's going to be a shame that he will never be able to display his talent on the world stage again.”