Tributes to Phillips as scrum-half calls it quits

A HOST of top rugby stars have paid tribute to former Wales scrum-half Mike Phillips following his decision to retire at the end of the season.

The 94-time capped player used his personal Twitter account to notify his 264,000 followers of his decision to stand down from the game at the end of the current campaign.

In a series of tweets, he wrote: “I would like to announce my retirement as a professional rugby player at the end of this season with @SaleSharksRugby.

“Thanks to the fans, teammates, clubs, coaches, @ WelshRugbyUnion the @LionsOfficial, friends & family who have supported me over the years.

“I will attack the next chapters with the same passion, commitment and laughter as I did during my entire career. See you soon!”

A number of his former teammates and rugby stars responded on Twitter to wish the former Wales ace good luck.

Former Wales prop Adam Jones tweeted: “Well done on an unbelievable career @mikephillips009.

“Never thought the shy skinny scrum-half in Wales 21s would go onto being a great!”

Hooker Richard Hibbard wrote: “Fantastic career, hell of a bloke on and off the pitch.

“All best for the future @ mikephillips009, still going to bust you up the weekend tho (sic)!”

Ex-England international David Flatman said: “Modelling next is it? Congrats on a properly phenomenal career. Top man.”

Our tribute: Pages 40&41