Former Ireland hooker Paul Shields has been forced to retire from rugby due to a neck injury he suffered earlier this year.

The 30-year-old Northampton forward won two Test caps and made 41 appearances for Saints after joining them from Ulster in 2007.

“Moving to Northampton was the best move I ever made, rugby-wise, and I am devastated that I have to retire,” said Shields, who will remain at Franklin’s Gardens in a team administrative role.

Saints rugby director Jim Mallinder added: “Paul is one of the biggest characters at the club and it is sad that injury has forced a premature end to his career.”