Dundalk FC defender Brian Gartland has announced his retirement from football, citing lingering injury issues as the key factor behind his decision.
The 36-year-old centre-back suffered a serious Anterior cruciate ligament injury against Shamrock Rovers back in April of 2021 and despite resolving to get back to full fitness, the legendary defender has now decided to call it a day.
Having began his career with Bray Wanderers, Gartland went on to have spells with Shelbourne, Monaghan United and Portadown before then-Lilywhites boss Stephen Kenny brought him to Dundalk in 2013.
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Forming a formidable partnership with Andy Boyle at the heart of the Dundalk defence, it proved to be a hugely successful nine year stint with the County Louth club as he went on to scoop five league titles as well as three FAI Cups with the club.
Those league titles came within a fruitful five year spell between 2014 and 2019; the Lilywhites notched three-in-a-row in 2016 and after falling away in 2017, they came roaring back in the subsequent years with Gartland captaining the side as another double was secured by the end of the 2018/19 season.
Gartland took to Twitter to inform fans of his decision to retire.
He said: "That's me retired from the professional game.
"I bloody love football."
The tweet displayed a graphic which contained a further statement.
It read: "It's been incredible. I gave it everything.
"I've loved every minute of it...and I've dreaded this day.
"I gave it one last shot but unfortunately after the injury the body just can't get back and stay fit enough to do the job I love."
And Gartland also paid tribute to the fans who supported the cause along the way.
He continued: "Sincerely thankful to everyone who played a part, on and off the pitch, especially the fans.
"Football is nothing without them. The boots are hung up.
"Go raibh míle maith agat go léir."
And the imposing centre-back was flooded with comments wishing him well.
One fan responded: "Thank you for everything. A true legend on and off the pitch.
"You are one of the greats to have worn the shirt. Forever a Lilywhite."
While another said: "An incredible career Garts. Congratulations on everything you've achieved.
"Best of luck with whatever you decide to do next."
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