Neale Harvey talks to former Harlequins lock George Merrick about his surprise move to France

Winning start: George Merrick in action for Clermont against La Rochelle

Announced last January, George Merrick’s departure from the Stoop came as something of a shock considering the Carshalton-born enforcer had emerged through the club’s academy and previously turned down moves to other Premiership clubs to remain with Harlequins. But Quins’ failure to present a timely contract offer opened the door to his summer move to French cracks Clermont Auvergne.
“It was quite we...