Betsen, 31, finally put an end to weeks of negotiations between him and both clubs when he announced on Thursday that he had chosen to stay with the French outfit he joined 15 years ago.

The French international is now contracted to Biarritz until June 2008 - the same year he will retire from rugby - after extending his contract by three years.

And while the flanker is happy he made the correct choice in opting to stay in France, he admits the decision was anything but easy.

"Going to Leicester was my last chance to discover something else and to fulfil a dream, he said. "England are the world champions, they are a rugby example.

Biarritz accepted Betsens demands of a unique physical training regime which he believes will help to maintain his high-intensity game at both club and international level over the next three years.

"The fact that Biarritz accepted my request in terms of individual physical preparation has given a lot of weight to my final decision, he added.

"I wanted them to commit themselves more in that domain because we are behind compared to the English and Anglo-Saxon rugby as a whole.

"But I have spent 15 seasons with Biarritz where I have been very happy both as a man and a player.

Betsen has yet to decide whether he will take part in the summer Test matches for France against South Africa and Australia in June.

"Bernard Laporte (France coach) left me the choice, the same way he did with other experienced players," added Betsen.

"If I want to go I am free to do so, but everything will depend on the end of season with Biarritz.

"If we reach the European Cup and Top 16 finals maybe I will want to take a rest."