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Rugby Union

Cohen to sign for new club

29/11/2007

World Cup winner Ben Cohen insists he wants to get back into the England team despite currently being without a club.

The winger bought himself out of his contract at Northampton in the hope of joining Leicester Tigers. But he was unable to join them as the £300,000 he would have received from Northampton as part of his testimonial year would have broken the Tiger's wage limit.

Cohen said he was close to signing with a club but refused to say who that club was, although he revealed he expected to be back playing in a matter of weeks.

"I'm sorting out a club now. I hope to be playing within the next few weeks, before the new year and I won't be moving house," said Cohen.

"There is nothing signed and sealed. I've had plenty of offers and I weighed up my options. But I've decided on the club it will be. We're just crossing Ts and dotting the Is.

"I'm feeling happier. I'm enjoying life but now it's time to get back to work. Since I've been out I've been training every day - running, swimming and staying trim."

Cohen ruled himself out of the World Cup in France so he could spend more time with his pregnant wife. But said he wasn't retired from international rugby.

"I don't think you can ever retire from international rugby," he said. "You always have to aspire to play for your country, whether you're up for selection or not.

"I've only just turned 29 and I have four or five years left. I have a lot to give. Hopefully if I'm playing well they will come and have a look at me."

Cohen was an integral part of the England team that won the World Cup in 2003, playing every match in the tournament.