Stuart Hogg in shock at retirement: U-turn after “reboot” in rehab

Stuart Hogg retired before last year's World Cup. Photo: Getty Images/David Rogers

Stuart Hogg is in advanced talks over a shock move to join Montpellier in the top 14 despite retiring from rugby last summer.

Telegraph Sport understands Montpellier are discussing bringing Hogg to France ahead of next season, with the potential move first reported in France by Midi. Olympic.

Hogg, 31, has not played rugby since Exeter Chiefs' European Cup semi-final defeat to La Rochelle last year and retired last summer ahead of the Rugby World Cup in Scotland.

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He was reported to have discussed a possible return to action with the Newcastle Falcons last month, but the move fell through.

The former Scotland captain and three-time British and Irish Lions tourist appeared in court early last month charged with abusive behavior towards his ex-wife, who was arrested outside his Hawick home in February. Hogg has pleaded not guilty and has been ordered to stay away from her ahead of his trial, which begins at the end of July.

Back in April, Hogg posted on social media about his time in rehab .

“I was lost, I needed help, direction, time away from the spotlight to be able to take a deep breath and think,” Hogg said. “I was very concerned about what people thought of me, how I was perceived, what impact I would have on them and how I would get through the day. I was living every moment in my head, and it wasn't healthy.

“Spending time in rehab allowed me to reset, get to know myself and talk about how I felt without judgment. It wasn't easy, but it was the right thing to do. Accepting responsibility was the first step in the right direction. I accept that I made mistakes and understand why I acted the way I did.”

Montpellier have already signed Billy Vunipola ahead of next season, with the former England number eight battling Sam Simmonds for the starting job composition.

The club also controversially announced the hiring of former France midfielder Mohamed Haouas, who was convicted of domestic violence last year and had his contract with Clermont terminated before moving to Biarritz.< /p>