The 32-year-old, who joined Exeter from their Aviva Premiership rivals Bath last summer, made just seven appearances for the Chiefs.

Short's season was halted when he broke his leg playing against London Irish last September.

He underwent successful surgery before embarking on a lengthy rehabilitation programme that culminated in him briefly returning to action in late January.

But Short said: "I have been trying to get back, but it has been a struggle.

"Obviously it's disappointing to go out this way, but it is part and parcel of the game.

"As a player you tend not to really think about the end, but since the injury in September it has given me time to think about the future and get a few bits and pieces in place.

"As hard as I've worked, there was still too much pain and it has been a real struggle to get back to the same levels as I was earlier in the season."