It was easy to retire from international duty according to Joe Marler.

The charismatic Quins prop made the decision last week but speaking to the Rugby Pod he revealed the reasons for doing so were to spend time with his family and to commit to his club.

The thought of retirement crossed the 28-year-old, 56 cap international back in June and as Eddie Jones was primed to announce his squad for the autumn internationals in November last week, Marler’s decision was made.

“I turned to my wife before the South Africa tour in June to say I think I’m done. I’ve enjoyed myself but I’m done,” said Marler.

“To be honest it wasn’t that hard for me. I just had enough, I have a young family with two kids and we plan on having more and having a nice big family. I really enjoyed my time with England and international rugby but my family is my priority. My kids flipped my perspective. The kids are number one.”

Marler also cited his loyalty to his club and how he couldn’t juggle the commitments of club and country with his family, who are his priority. He said that when the squads were due to be announced his performances dipped subconsciously.

“I would get anxiety whilst playing and it would manifest itself in giving away even more dull penalties, looking for a yellow card, or a red card, then if I pick up a ban it’s an easy way out.”

“I said I can’t keep doing this, it’s not fair on the family or the club. I need to focus on my club commitments, where we are and where we are trying to go as a club.”

Those club commitments will be shown on Saturday evening as Quins welcome league pace-setters Saracens to the The Stoop.