George Robson to leave Harlequins for Oyonnax

English Premiership Rugby club Harlequins have announced that former England forward George Robson will the club at the end of the season to join French club Oyonnax.

On making the announcement Director of Rugby Conor ‘Shea commented: “George has been one of the great servants of the club and I have no doubt we will see him back at Harlequins in some capacity in the future.

“We sat down last summer and George said he wanted to consider where he was before making any further commitments. On consideration George told me he was looking to experience something different and a few years in France for himself and his wife was an opportunity too good for them to turn down.

“He goes with our best wishes; we will miss him hugely, not only on the pitch but also off it. He has given so much to Harlequins and only those who have worked with him will know what he puts himself through and what he delivers. I feel very privileged to have shared five great years with George. We all wish him well for the future.”

George is a central component of the Harlequins squad, having made nearly 200 appearances for the Club since graduating from its award-winning Academy in 2005. The second row has scored eleven tries over the course of a ten year career and has also represented England at both Under 16 and Under 18 levels. He also captained the international midweek side during the tour of South Africa in June 2012.

Off the pitch George offers an enthusiasm and energy along with excellent leadership skills, which make him integral to both the playing and administrative side of Harlequins. He is a favourite with supporters, including those in the ‘goat pen’, and he will be sorely missed.

George added ,”I am extremely proud to have played a part in the success achieved by Harlequins in recent seasons and the memory of walking across the road and playing in the Premiership final in 2012 is something that will live with me and the supporters forever. However I have decided that the time is now right for me and my family to challenge myself in a different environment and culture.

“The only English club I have ever wanted to play for is Harlequins. It is a fantastic club where I have made many great friends and memories. I will now continue to put all of my efforts into helping Quins achieve our potential for the rest of the season.”