Quins winger Tom Williams has called time on his playing career and admits to holding one or two regrets in a glittering career.

The 31-year-old, who has made 214 appearances for the club and scored 65 tries in a 13-year spell at the Stoop, has played only seven full games in the past two seasons.

Williams was caught up in the Bloodgate controversy that led to then-director of rugby Dean Richards being handed a three-year ban from the sport.

The academy graduate also served a four-month ban for his involvement in the incident that marred Harlequins' 6-5 Heineken Cup quarter-final defeat to Leinster in 2009. 

Williams played a pivotal role in helping the club bounce back from top flight relegation to lift the European Challenge Cup, LV= Cup and Premiership titles and will take up a coaching role at the club.

“After 13 years and over 200 games for the club, it is with a heavy heart I have to announce that my playing time with Harlequins is over," he said.

"I have had the incredible fortune to have played alongside some unbelievably talented players and to be able to call so many of them my friends is humbling.

“From my debut until my last game I can’t express the excitement and pride I have felt every time I have pulled on the Quins jersey. For me, running onto the pitch at the Stoop in front of a full house is the thing I will miss the most.

“It says something about a club when players want to stay for their whole careers and I am so indebted for all the support I have received from the players, coaches, staff and supporters that has allowed me to do this.

“Time and injury have caught up with me over the last two years and whilst I may have one or two regrets, I can look back on my career with Harlequins with immense pride.

"Winning the Premiership final and Nick Evans’ late, late drop goal against Stade Français are two of many memories that I will hold on to and treasure forever.

“Fortunately, I have been afforded an opportunity to influence the next generation of Quins players by being offered a role within the coaching staff.

"I am thrilled about the chance to keep working with all the players and staff at the club in the next chapter of my career and I really can’t wait to get started.”

Williams, who represented England Sevens in 2004 and won the Hong Kong leg of the World Series, is credited with having one of the most powerful rugby brains in the game.

And director of rugby Conor O'Shea is hoping he can play a key part in developing the club's next generation of stars.

“Tom is remaining proof that rugby doesn’t have to be about size. He has one of the best rugby brains there is," he added.

"His ability to know where to stand in defence and his lines of running in attack remain an on pitch rugby education to anyone.

“He has given some great memories to this club over an incredible career. For me the moment that stands out is not him scoring tries in our Aviva Premiership or LV= Cup final victories - it is of a chase and tackle from a kick-off in Toulouse which led to a turnover. It was a momentum shifting moment in our win over Toulouse a few seasons back.

“That moment typified Tom to me. He will be missed as a player, but I know with his rugby intellect a fabulous coaching career awaits and we look forward to watching him take those first steps at his one and only club.”