Danny Care: Billy Millard 'hopeful' scrum-half will extend Harlequins career after international retirement

Harlequins director of rugby Billy Millard says he hopes Danny Care will continue to play rugby for the club next season after the scrum-half announced his international retirement.

Care called time on his England career after 101 caps, becoming one of just six men’s players to reach a century of appearances for his country during the Six Nations.

The 37-year-old cited a desire to spend more time with his family as the reason behind his decision, with Millard optimistic he will extend his club career for at least another year.

“We don't want to put too much pressure on him,” Millard told the BBC.

“He's got a big family and he's got decisions to make but we're very hopeful that we can get there shortly.”

Care made his 371st appearance for Quins in Saturday’s 52-7 thrashing by rivals Saracens in Gallagher Premiership Rugby, a game in which the scrum-half was yellow carded.

He made his debut for the club in 2006 and has two Premiership titles on his roll of honour. His influence on the younger members of the squad was also lauded by Millard.

“What I love about DC is he's got those old school rugby values that are pretty cool to pass down to Marcus [Smith] and the younger guys,” Millard added.

“They love him and why wouldn't they? He's a joy to be around.

“He's been a massive part of this club since well before I got here so it's been a pleasure to spend some time with him.”

Quins now sit fifth in the Premiership table with just five games remaining in the race to make the play-offs.

They will look to bounce back when they welcome Bath to the Stoop on Saturday, a game which is live on TNT Sports.

Care played in all five of England’s Six Nations games this year, earning his 100th cap in a thrilling 23-22 victory over Ireland at Twickenham.

He said it was “a dream come true” just to represent his country once but that the time was now right to step aside for the next generation.

“Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd get the opportunity to do it over 100 times,” Care said. “After a lot of reflection the past few months the time feels right, for myself and the team, to retire from international rugby.

“The past 12 months in this England team have been arguably my favourite, making memories that my family and I will cherish and remember forever.”

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