Flutey returns to Wasps

The England and British & Irish Lions centre made a mere nine appearances for Brive this season because of a series of injury problems. And now he has been released by the Top 14 outfit he has opted to return to Wasps.

Flutey's new three-year deal will allow him to try to add to the 2008 Guinness Premiership title he claimed with Wasps. It was while at Wasps, who he joined from London Irish in 2007, that he won the first of his 13 England caps and was selected for the Lions tour to South Africa.

"I'm delighted to be returning to London Wasps. I would like to thank Brive for the opportunity and experience, which I have enjoyed, but I am now fully focussed on getting my injury niggles behind me and getting back to my best level as a player," said Flutey.

"I have every desire to play to the best of my ability for both club and country and I believe I can really do that in the Wasps environment."

Wasps' director of rugby, Tony Hanks, has described Flutey, who played in the third Test against the Springboks in 2009, as "a world class footballer".

"His ability to play 10 or 12 at the highest level is proven by recent international form at 12 and as fly half when Wasps secured the Guinness Premiership title in 2008 - that versatility makes him a very special player," said Hanks.

"He has achieved success with Wasps before and knows what we are about. Riki made a decision based on rugby and reflects confidence in the Club's structure, environment and the values we stand for.

"His professionalism is something that has always impressed us and we are looking forward to the impact he will make both on and off the field within the squad."