Walsall Football Club can confirm that defender Chris Hussey has today announced his retirement from professional football.
The 34-year-old has enjoyed a career that has spanned over 16 years, 489 matches and promotions with AFC Wimbledon, Bury, Sheffield United, Cheltenham Town and Port Vale as well as spells with Coventry City, Crewe Alexandra, Burton Albion, Swindon Town, Stockport County and Walsall.
He joined the Saddlers back in June and has featured six times, scoring once away at Wrexham.
Hussey has explained the reasons behind his decision to retire.
“After only a short spell as a professional football player at this great club, I have made the decision to retire from full-time football and pursue a new and exciting opportunity outside of the sport.
“My time with Walsall has been short but I have learnt an awful lot in that short space of time. I am immensely grateful for the support of the fans, teammates, and coaching staff throughout my time here, especially the gaffer for bringing me to the football club.
“However, life presents us with unique chances for personal and professional growth, and I believe this new endeavour will allow me to explore different facets of my abilities and interests.
“While I bid farewell to the beautiful game on a full-time basis, I carry with me the invaluable lessons and memories from my time at Walsall, and I look forward to this next chapter with optimism and enthusiasm.”
Head Coach Mat Sadler praised Hussey for a stellar career in the game and offered his best wishes.
“Chris has had a fantastic career,” Sadler said.
“It wasn’t an easy decision for him but he has taken the decision that he feels is best for him and his family at this right time and we honoured and supported that as a football club.
“We lose Chris and the experience that he brings but he goes with our best wishes for the next part of his career.
“For us, we’ve got some brilliant options and we will continue with the squad that we’ve put together and keep moving forward.”