Dan Robson has returned to Gloucester Rugby after a four-year absence, facing a fresh chapter in his career as well as lingering frustrations from his time at Wasps. The 34-year-old scrum-half, capped 14 times by England under Eddie Jones, rejoined his original professional club this summer following a stint in France with Pau.
Robson’s departure from England’s Premiership was influenced by the financial collapse of Wasps in 2022, an event that resulted in 167 players and staff losing their jobs. The situation left Robson feeling let down by the club’s management and left him uncertain about his future within the Premiership. “We were left in the dark a little bit as players and coaches,” he said. “I felt let down by a lot of people. It’s still buried somewhere — and adds a little fuel to the fire.”
After leaving Gloucester in 2015, Robson joined Wasps, where he played until the club’s demise. Following that, he sought new opportunities abroad, signing for Pau in France’s Top 14 league. He described his time in Pau positively, highlighting the quality of life and cultural experience at the foot of the Pyrenees. “It’s a beautiful place to live, an hour from Biarritz, and the rugby was strong,” he said.
Despite a fulfilling period in France, Robson’s allegiance to Gloucester remained strong. Gloucester head coach George Skivington expressed interest in bringing Robson back the season before last, but contractual obligations with Pau delayed the move. Skivington was able to finalize the transfer after Gloucester’s scrum-half Tomos Williams moved to Saracens.
Robson acknowledged the passion and ambition at Gloucester, even as the club has struggled to achieve consistent results in recent seasons. “I’ve always kept an eye on the Premiership and Gloucester’s games. I know how passionate the club is, how passionate the fans are, and I know the ambition of this club, but the results haven’t been what the club needs,” he said. “There’s definitely unfinished business.”
As Robson prepares for Gloucester’s opening Premiership match against Exeter Chiefs, he is motivated not only to contribute on the field but also to overcome the setbacks linked to his time at Wasps. His return marks a significant moment for both player and club as they look to build toward a more successful future.