Dawson has been impressed with what he has seen so far at Wasps

The England international left Franklin's Gardens after 13 years service but is now relishing the prospect of playing in London.

"I know now that I made the right decision 100%," he said.

"The move is exactly what I needed. The work ethic here is probably above clubs that I have been associated with."

The 31-year-old was one of stars of England's incredible World Cup victory in Australia last November.

However, he had a disappointing season domestically as he saw Kiwi Mark Robinson, who was signed to fill in while Dawson was away with England, make the number nine shirt his own.

I have spent all my career competing for the number nine position, that's the nature of the scrum-half position Matt Dawson

"I have had 13 fantastic years but it was not exactly how I would have liked to leave the club," said Dawson.

"I was enjoying my rugby and I got myself into the national side.

"I picked up a couple of injuries but when I was playing I was playing well.

"I did not play enough rugby last year but not everything is going to go your way.

"There are numerous reasons why I am with Wasps. A lot of them are to do with rugby and a lot are personal, but I have no regrets, I have been very fortunate and it's time to look forward."

Dawson has been impressed with the set-up at Wasps, who have taken club rugby by storm under the guidance of coach Warren Gatland and assistant Shaun Edwards.

Academy: Dawson's dummy masterclass

"I can sense that there is a really good set of lads here," he said.

"It is good fun and there is some good banter but they work really, really hard.

"You get an idea of how they are by mixing with the England players but it's not until you get here do you realise that there is no question as to why they won the Heineken Cup and the Premiership two years on the bounce.

"That's why I'm enjoying it, it's challenging me.

"The likes of Warren and Shaun are challenging me, my skills and my development. That's what I want."

Dawson is unconcerned that he will be competing with former Wales star Rob Howley for the number nine shirt.

Howley played a key role for Wasps last season

Howley was instrumental in Wasps' double success last season but will miss the start of the new season after undergoing wrist surgery.

"Rob will be out until November and then hopefully I'll be away with England but when we are both back it will be a right royal battle.

"But it has been like that at Northampton, England and the Lions, I have spent all my career competing for the number nine position, that's the nature of the scrum-half position, it's competitive."