Jamie Ritchie explains his departure from Perpignan as Glasgow-bound flanker suffers fresh injury blow

The Scotland international, who is expected to play for Glasgow Warriors next season, said the need to be closer to his children had been the main driving factor to cut short his stay in France.

Ritchie, 29, joined Perpignan last summer after more than a decade with Edinburgh. He has made a big impression in what has been a difficult season for the Catalan club, captaining them on several occasions.

“It was a really difficult decision to make,” Ritchie said in a video released by Perpignan. “The club has been very welcoming, as have the fans, but it’s a personal decision I have made to be closer to my kids and my family.

“I joined at a really difficult period and the club, all the boys and the supporters have all been amazing to me. I’ve really felt welcome here and I’ve really enjoyed it. I know it's been tough on the field at times, but the support has been unwavering, and Perpignan will always have a place in my heart.

“I will be doing my utmost with the team to make sure we stay in the Top 14.”

Unfortunately for Ritchie, it looks as if he will miss the remainder of the season. He injured his ankle in Perpignan’s 45-14 loss to Clermont at the weekend and has been ruled out of next month’s relegation play-off against the team that finishes second in Pro D2.

“I'm sorry it's ending so soon,” Ritchie added in the video message. “The support from the Catalan people has been incredible. I hope to perhaps return to attend a match. But I will certainly return to Perpignan at some point. I love this part of the world, and I thank you all immensely.”

Ritchie played 15 times for Perpignan but his time in the Top 14 was interrupted when he fractured a bone in his shin while playing in Scotland’s win over England in the Six Nations in February. The injury ruled him out for around 10 weeks.

An exemplary player

François Rivière, the Perpignan club president, paid tribute to the Scot and suggested he would like to see him return to the club one day.

“He is an exemplary player,” said Rivière. “He has left his mark on the club through his commitment and leadership. We respect his personal decision, which is essential for his work-life balance. We will continue to follow and support him. Perhaps another opportunity will arise one day.”