Exiles' Conor Gilsenan forced into retirement

Exiles back-row forward Conor Gilsenan has been forced to retire with immediate effect.

Gilsenan, who has made over 70 appearances for the club, will hang up his boots due to on-going medical issues.

The 27 year old played most of his rugby at openside at captained Exiles on a number of occasions.

Declan Kidney, Exiles’ Director of Rugby, said:

“Conor is everything that is good about London Irish, always very welcoming, positive and determined.

“In a club of Exiles, he welcomed everyone with open arms and as hard as he worked on the pitch, where he gave every minute everything he had, he did likewise off the pitch by continually looking out for his fellow players and clubmates.

“All at London Irish thank Conor for his dedicated service and wish him the very best for his future.”

Gilsenan himself said:

“It is with a heavy heart that I am wrapping up my career in rugby and my time with London Irish. A club that quickly became my adopted home over the past 6 years” said Conor.

“I have played with some incredible players, built relationships with extraordinary people and represented a special club with great supporters. Thanks to everyone who played a part in my time at Irish, fond memories I will take with me for a lifetime. The future is bright for the club with the move back to London on the horizon and I look forward to supporting the boys in Brentford.”