Waterford goalkeeper Brian Murphy announces retirement from professional football

Waterford-born shot-stopper Brian Murphy has announced his retirement from professional football.

The 39-year-old, who spent the last three seasons with the Blues, has made almost 300 appearances during a career spanning 23 years - playing with clubs such as Manchester City, Swansea, Ipswich Town, QPR, Portsmouth, and Cardiff City.

A statement, posted by Murphy on social media, read: "After 23 years as a Professional Footballer, I now feel that it’s the right time for me to retire from the game that I have loved being a part of for all these years.

"Moving to Manchester as a 17-year-old goalkeeper with no idea of what I was doing or where it might take me, I feel very privileged to have had a successful club career, as well as the honour of representing my country at all levels.

"From the Premier League to the League of Ireland and everything in between, I have been extremely fortunate to have played at incredible clubs including; Manchester City, Swansea City, Bohemian FC, Ipswich Town, QPR, Portsmouth FC and Cardiff City. And then to finish my career playing for my home town club Waterford FC has been a very special honour for me.

"To all of the Managers, Coaches, Teammates and Supporters who have helped me to live and breathe this game for so long, I thank you very much.

"To my family and friends, thank you for being there for me every step of the way. I owe you more than you will ever know.

"Timing is everything, if it’s meant to happen it will, at the right time for the right reasons"

"So once again, my time is now."

After 23 years playing, it’s time for change pic.twitter.com/4QWINteyez

— Brian Murphy (@B_murphy01gk) January 6, 2023