Delaney forced to retire....

[andy villa]

Wales and Aston Villa defender Mark Delaney has announced his retirement from football.

The 31-year-old has had long-running battles with knee injuries and has finally conceded defeat in his bid to return to full fitness.

Delaney made 193 appearance for Aston Villa, also winning 36 caps for Wales.

"This is a very sad day for me and is not a decision I have taken lightly, but it right for me and for my family," Delaney told the Villa website.

He had been to USA to see renowned US surgeon Dr Richard Steadman in a bid to save his career, but after eight-and-a-half years at Villa Park he has admitted defeat.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill said: "Mark has tried absolutely everything to get back to fitness.

I'm sure he has a future in the game and I wish him all the best in whatever he does

"He's been dedicated, coming in here every single day and everything he's been asked to do, he's done.

"He's gone to the very best people and he's tried everything. I'm sure he has a future in the game and I wish him all the best in whatever he does."

Delaney now hopes to stay in football and pursue a career in coaching.

source....

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