18 May, 15:44
It's down to the wire now for the five contenders who have been shortlisted for the ultimate individual accolade in northern hemisphere rugby, ERC European Player of the Year 2013.




While at Northampton, Robbie was called into the England Senior squad and made his debut against Wales as a 21 year old in 2003. The 2005/6 season saw him make the switch to the Newcastle Falcons where he played with Connacht forward Michael McCarthy.
In two seasons with the Falcons, Robbie made 35 appearances before moving to Connacht where he played 39 Magners League caps and 17 Amlin Challenge Cup games before being forced into retirement in 2010 through a back injury.
Connacht's Head Coach and former Irish International Eric Elwood:
"Robbie was a true professional who's positive attitude both on and off the field was exceptional. The physicality he brought on the pitch not just in the scrum but around the park as well will be missed by everyone here in the club. In the 3 years Robbie has been with us he has made a huge impression on everyone and the work he has done helping to bring the younger members through has been invaluable."