CHELMSFORD CITY'S Elliott Ward has announced his retirement from playing football.
The 36-year-old enjoyed an impressive career as a defender, having played in every professional league in England including spells at West Ham United, Coventry City, Bournemouth and Blackburn Rovers before joining the Clarets last year.
As well as playing, the central defender assisted manager Mickey Spillane by helping to coach the club's adacemy youngsters, a role he will continue in.
Manager Robbie Simpson said: “I'm really looking forward to keeping Wardy around the place.
“What a fantastic career he's had, though. He can look back on that career knowing that he gave everything towards it and that's why he had the career he did, so I'm sure he can have no regrets.”
