Veteran League of Ireland goalkeeper Brian Murphy has announced his retirement from football.
Having spent 23 years between the sticks, the 39-year-old has decided that now is the correct time to pursue a new chapter in a memorable career.
Waterford FC has confirmed that Murphy will remain at the club as a First Team coach & Head of Academy Goalkeeping.
? Goalkeeper Brian Murphy has announced his retirement from football.
We are delighted that Brian will remain at the club as a First Team coach & Head of Academy Goalkeeping.
More info ? https://t.co/mNqINcpye2#WaterfordFC pic.twitter.com/yoQvbga7F3
— Waterford FC (@WaterfordFCie) January 6, 2023
A club statement read: "The Waterford-born goalkeeper made almost 300 senior appearances along with international caps with the Republic of Ireland.
"The veteran spent the majority of his career across the water with Manchester City, Swansea, Ipswich Town, QPR, Portsmouth, and Cardiff City.
"Brian joined the Blues in 2020 and spent the last three seasons with the club – keeping 22 clean sheets in 66 matches."
Loyal supporters have moved quickly to thank the player for his time in goal in Waterford.
It's hard to admire a top professional more than one who comes back to his local club after a very successful career abroad. Even better one who gets into coaching locally after their playing career ends.
— Kevin Higgins (@KevindeHiggins) January 6, 2023
Unbelievable Goalkeeper for us and an unbelievable career ???
— Daniel Condon (@DanielC09441044) January 6, 2023
Legend
— Conor ?? (@WFCConor) January 6, 2023
A statement from Murphy 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. Thank you, Murph"
