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Veteran defender calls time on playing days
THIS week was a landmark in the history of Chorley FC and it was not because of Tony Hesketh's return to Victory Park.
Instead it was the day when stalwart defender Martin Clark handed back his Chorley training gear to the club and finally announced his retirement from injury.
The 39-year-old has been plagued by injury problems for the past two seasons and he realised now was as good a time as any to hang up his boots.
He said: "I amreally disappointed about calling it a day as I have been resigned to the fact for some time that I would not play again this season.
"I think it had something to do with the weather and the rain when you think whether I actually wanted to do it on a Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday night.
"It was just about making the decision early rather than wondering if I would get a few matches again this year.
"Chorley have a really settled side now and I don't know whether I could force my way into the teamfor a match or two."
Clark is looking forward to a break fromthe game but has not ruled out a return to the sport.
He said: "I would like to get my coaching badges but I have a young family and want to spend time with them even thoughmy wifemay think about gettingme out of the house on Saturdays.
"I amin no rush to get back but who knows during the summer I might be missing it toomuch."
Clark, who works as a distribution printer in Burnley, says he has happy memories at Victory Park including reaching the Lancashire Cooperative Cup final two years ago.
He said: "I have enjoyed meeting nice people at the club over the past few years and I think I willmiss it.
"I amfull of respect for our chairman KenWright as he care passionately about the club instead of just worrying about finances he wants Chorley to do well."
Wright paid tribute to Clark and his years of service to the Magpies.
He said: "Martin has been a model professional since he has been at the club.
"I think he also played a key role in our success over the past couple of seasons even thoughmanagers have come and gone and he hasstepped into the breach to help."
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Weather for Chorley
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: -5 C to -0 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Light sleet showers
Temperature: -0 C to 1 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: South west
