Lomu set to make comeback
Jonah Lomu was diagnosed with a kidney disease in 2003
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Sunday, 28, Jun 2009 03:37
All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu has joined French third division side Marseille Vitrolles.
The 34-year-old has been out of the game for nearly two years after a spell with North Harbour in New Zealand.
Lomu, who won 63 international caps, had his career cut short by a kidney illness that eventually required a transplant in 2004.
But despite his setbacks, Lomu insists he never planned to quit rugby.
"I decided to take a sabbatical year to be there during my partner's pregnancy, to experience this moment which is so important in a man's life," he said.
"Everyone thought that I had stopped my career, but it was a mistake.
"I always feel the need to play and only I will decide when it will be the end."
Lomu, who played for Cardiff in the 2005/06 season, is set to finalise a deal with Marseille this week.
The winger said his arrival along with fellow new-boys Alain Hyardet, Isitolo Maka, Julian Vulakoro and David Gerard can help turn Marseille into a force.
"Marseille is the second city in France," he told the club's website.
"It should have a great rugby club. Now the club are giving itself means to fulfil their ambitions.
"Promotion to Pro D2 is the priority for the club this year. It's this challenge that pleased me.
"The signings they have made show the club's desire to succeed and I want to be part of this adventure."