Ulster's Maguire retires due to hip disorder

Ulster Rugby's Mike Maguire today announced his enforced retirement from the game due to a degenerative hip disorder.

Maguire, who joined the club at the beginning of July on a two-year deal, was unaware of the condition and has never experienced anything more than some stiffness in the joint post-match or training.

However the Ulster medical staff flagged up the trouble-spot during his medical and subsequent scans have revealed that Maguire has a condition which, unbeknown to either the player or any of his previous clubs, he has had since birth.

The condition could potentially have been managed, allowing Maguire to continue his rugby playing career, however the consequence would be serious arthritis problems in later life and Maguire, together with Ulster Rugby has taken the decision to retire altogether from the game.

Ulster coach Mark McCall commented: “We’re obviously very disappointed to lose Mike from the squad. He’s settled in and trained very well since the start of pre-season. However, he must look to his long-term future and we fully support his decision to retire from rugby.”