Bolton Wanderers defender Marc Tierney has retired from professional football with immediate effect due to a persistent ankle injury.
The full-back has been restricted to just eight appearances for the Trotters after joining them from Norwich City in the summer of 2013.
Tierney suffered a leg and ankle break and required ligament reconstruction following a challenge during a game against Yeovil Town in September 2013. Despite undergoing four separate operations and extensive rehabilitation attempts, Tierney has been forced to call time on his career.
"I'd like to place on record my thanks to the backroom staff, manager and chairman, who have all been brilliant in helping me in the best possible way," he told Bolton's official website.
"The club have been kind enough to allow me to still come in for physio, so my treatment is still ongoing. I want to get to the point where it doesn't affect me in my normal life, a recreational ankle if you will.
"It's obviously very disappointing, but I've got some great memories from my time as a player, from progressing up the leagues to playing in the Premier League. Of course, I wanted to help Bolton get back there, but it just wasn't to be."
Tierney also played for Oldham Athletic, Shrewsbury Town and Colchester United during his career.
Steven Toplis
