The Leeds Tykes hooker, who started Englands last two Tests, discovered on Monday he had fallen behind Northamptons Steve Thompson and Sales Andrew Titterrell in the pecking order for the autumn internationals.

The 32-year-old informed new England coach Andy Robinson of his decision, and said: I told Andy that I could not have done any more this season to be starting for England.

How can I go from being first choice to third choice? I want to be number one, I dont want to be sat on the bench.

Regans club-mate Iain Balshaw has also been overlooked but he has only played three matches since recovering from a groin injury.

Regan, who also played second fiddle to Thompson during the World Cup and RBS 6 Nations, follows Martin Johnson, Lawrence Dallaglio, Neil Back, Jason Leonard, Kyran Bracken, Paul Grayson and Dorian West into retirement.

Andy Robinson said he respected Regan's decision to retire.

Mark has had a tremendous career for England, and you have got to respect the player's decision when they choose to retire, he said.

Mark was disappointed with the selection in that he felt he should have been in the starting XV or on the bench.

I respect his decision, as I would respect any player's decision to retire.

Robinson revealed that Wasps flanker Joe Worsley is the one injury concern England are monitoring at their Surrey training base.

Worsley suffered a leg injury during Wasps' Premiership game against Harlequins last Friday, but has been selected to start against Canada.

Robinson added that scrum-half Andy Gomarsall would be fine following his recent back spasm problems, while his rival Harry Ellis should be fit in time for next week's appointment with South Africa.

Leicester prospect Ellis was widely expected to make his international debut this weekend, but those hopes were dashed by an Achilles tendon injury.