So-called experts.

England captain Dylan Hartley has fired back at the ‘so-called experts’ who have called for his retirement following his latest break from rugby as a as a result of concussion problems.

Northampton confirmed yesterday that he would be taking a break from rugby, missing the rest of Aviva Premiership season and England’s tour of South Africa, after picking up a concussion in England’s defeat to Ireland at Twickenham last month.

The 32-year-old has a history of concussion-related injuries, and two years ago said he feared his career would be over if he suffered another head blow. He has previously admitted that he did not remember lifting the Six Nations trophy in 2016, after being concussed in the win over France.

In the 2015-16 season, Hartley missed six weeks after a collision with Billy Vunipola, before being knocked unconscious tackling Uini Atonio in the final Six Nations match against France, which restricted him to just 16 minutes of game time for Northampton in the remainder of the campaign.

Speaking after that second concussion, Hartley said that another such injury could cause him to re-evaluate his options.

“If I got another one now, I would be worried,” Hartley said.

“I would probably start looking at other careers or stuff like that, or maybe a long lay-off.”

Despite this, Hartley is adamant he will return next season, despite suffering yet anther concussion that has resulted in a lay-off. Hartley took to Instagram calling out out pundits from papers, pubs and podcasts who have called for him to consider hanging up his boots.

Dylan Hartley statement on Dylan Hartley. Believe it or not this is a photo of me singing and not what is rumoured to be a fat lady (difficult to tell apart I know). I see there’s a lot of so-called experts out there in newspapers, pubs and podcasts recommending what I do with my career. Funnily enough I’m only listening to the medical professionals and myself. Fortunately/unfortunately for some I’ll be back next season to help my respective teams push on. Thank you for your support.