Former Wales and Worcester Warriors flanker Jonathan Thomas has stated that players must become more aware of the damaging nature of head injuries.

The 32-year-old announced his retirement on Tuesday due to being diagnosed with epilepsy, thought to have been caused by suffering multiple head traumas during his professional career.

"I still think it's the players who need more educating about the warning signs and getting out of that 'digging in' mentality," Thomas told Worcester Warriors' official website regarding head injuries.

"It is one thing the Unions driving things and the medical departments being really professional, but it's another thing getting it through to players who have a gladiatorial mind-set and want to get on the field and play.

"There are definitely players out there who try to tone down their symptoms in order to keep playing."

Thomas, who won promotion to the Premiership with Worcester last season, made 67 appearances for Wales during his career.