Lions tour schedule

"I'd like to finish my career with three Lions tours," the 33-year-old told BBC Sport Wales.

New Wales coach Mike Ruddock has mooted the possibility of getting Howley back in the national squad, but the player ruled out the option.

"I quit for my family and I won't be going back on that," he said.

Howley ended his Wales career two years ago with 59 caps in the red jersey.

Few doubt that he remains one of the top scrum-halves in the world game, and when Ruddock was named as the new national coach he suggested he would contact the Wasps star.

If I was to return for Wales it would show total disrespect to Steve Hansen Rob Howley Howley quits international rugby

"I haven't had a call from Mike Ruddock and I was surprised when I heard his statement about me, " said Howley.

"I've moved on with my life, I'm enjoying my time at Wasps and the extra time I get to spend with my family.

"If I was to return for Wales it would show total disrespect to Steve Hansen.

"People would say I only gave up because of him and that is not the case."

Despite his determination to stay on the sidelines with Wales, Howley is keen to add to his experiences with the Lions on their 1997 and 2001 tours.

He was first choice scrum-half in '97 before injury cut short his tour before the Tests.

In 2001 he made the Lions number-nine shirt his own, starting the first two Tests before injury ruled him out of the deciding rubber against the Australians.

"I'd love to be involved in three Lions tours, that's the dream option, and 2005 is my last chance," said Howley.

"It's a massive punt in that I haven't played international rugby for two years, but the decision is down to Clive Woodward and the selectors.

"I've enjoyed the way I've been allowed to play for Wasps and if I can carry on at this level I'll be putting myself forward.

"Lions tours are brilliant times, it's immense to rub shoulders with the English, Irish and Scottish players."