Stock calls time on his illustrious playing career

Havant & Waterlooville captain Brian Stock has announced his retirement from playing – to take up a coaching role with Premier League side AFC Bournemouth.

The 36-year-old midfielder will call time on his career following the National League home clash with Barrow on January 5th. 

Stock joined Havant in 2014 and captained the Hawks to back-to-back title wins in 2017 and 2018, playing an integral part in Lee Bradbury’s side gaining promotion to Non-League’s top table for the first time in the club’s history.

Previously, Stock had made over 400 Football League appearances, gaining promotions with Doncaster Rovers and AFC Bournemouth before completing a hat-trick by leading Burnley into the Premier League in 2013-14.

Stock was also capped three times by Wales, making his international debut in a World Cup Qualifier against Russia in 2009.

He said: “I’d like to thank everyone at the club, right the way through from the supporters to the players, the management and I can’t thank everyone enough to feel welcome and be able to captain this side over the past two to three years.”

A Havant spokesman added: “Everyone at Havant and Waterlooville FC would like to thank Brian for his hard work, professionalism and brilliance in his time at the club and wish him well for whatever the future may hold.”