Croft at crossroads after forced early retirement

TOM Croft admits he faces an uncertain future after revealing he had not prepared fully for early retirement.

Former England and Lions flanker Croft, 32, was forced to call time on his career last week following advice from specialists over an early season neck injury, which followed major neck surgery he previously underwent in 2012.

Disappointed Croft said: “Being told by (head coach) Matt O’Connor that it was probably time and, having seen the surgeons and specialists, it had a big effect on me because I hadn’t been willing to accept it.

“I’d managed to bury it as far back in my head as possible that this wasn’t an option I’d need to take.

“No player wants to accept they can’t play and I probably didn’t prepare myself for getting away from life as a rugby player. But it’s not just for my health, I’ve got a wife and young family and want to do things with my kids.”

Croft is now seeking advice over future career opportunities, adding: “I’ve been in Leicester’s academy since I was 16 and a professional for the last 12 years, but now I need to find a new job and that’s my next big challenge.

“It’s into the unknown for me and something that as players we’re not overly educated on – a lot of us are very ‘head in the sand’ and ignore it because you never think about retirement.

“I’m picking the brains of guys like Ben Kay and Louis Deacon who’ve made a success since hanging up their boots.”

Meanwhile, Croft believes Leicester are ready for a return to the glory days of Premiership and European Cup success.

He said: “The club is in very good hands with the coaches on board and the quality of players coming through is really exciting.

“Winning is not a given but they’ve got a great chance this season.”