Derry legend Coyle retires

Legendary League of Ireland stalwart Liam Coyle has retired from playing duties with Derry City, after fifteen years of service at the Brandywell club.

Legendary League of Ireland stalwart Liam Coyle has retired from playing duties with Derry City, after 15 years of service at the Brandywell club.

Although his playing contract was not due to run out until May 31, the 35-year-old front man has decided to hang up his boots in favour of a chief scouting role under current City manager Gavin Dykes.

Having guaranteed the Candystripes’ survival in the eircom Premier Division with an extra-time winner in last month’s promotion/relegation play-off against Finn Harps, Coyle confirmed: "I don’t think it’s any secret that this is my final season as a player.

"I’ve reached the stage when injuries don’t heal as quickly as they used to, and I don’t mind admitting that my legs won’t carry me for 90 minutes any longer," he added.

The 2003 season was disrupted for Coyle, Derry’s all-time top scorer, as a troublesome knee injury kept his appearances to a minimum and his goal-count to four, one of which gave him his 100th league goal of his career. Both club and player are expected to make a statement in due course.