WORCESTER Warriors today confirmed that winger Chris Ashton has been released from his contract at the club. 

He was signed back in January of this year but has only featured four times for the club and was sent off in his final match during that dismal afternoon against Northampton Saints last season - losing 62-14.

He has not made an appearance this season due to a mixture of injuries and off-pitch issues - where multiple reports suggest he was suspended by Warriors for an unknown incident. 

Worcester head coach Jonathan Thomas first confirmed to the press that Ashton was 'unavilable for selection' in October after it was rumoured he had been suspended.

Thomas continued to give very little away in that sense but now the unhappy situation has ended with the former Sale Sharks, Northampton Saints and Saracens man leaving Sixways.

The press release read: "Former England wing Chris Ashton has left Warriors with immediate effect by mutual consent.

"Ashton arrived at Sixways from Harlequins 11 months ago but calf and knee injuries have prevented him from playing for Warriors this season.

"The daily commute from his home in Northampton had also proved challenging so the club and Ashton have agreed a release from his contract which was due to expire at the end of this season."