Robert Nugent retires

Saturday’s final fixture of the season against Matlock Town will also be Rob Nugent’s last, because after more than 170 games playing for FC United, he is to retire after the game.

Rob has taken the difficult decision to call it a day following a season in which injuries have affected him and a new job has had a big impact on his time as the 27-year-old centre-back explains:

"I mean it sincerely when I say that it is one of the hardest decisions I have had to make but I have always in my career tried to do myself justice, never more so than when playing for FC United.

"It has got to the point where the injuries that I have suffered and my new career has begun to make me question whether I can commit fully to playing - and I never want to be in a position where I’m letting my team-mates, the manager and most importantly the supporters down."??

As supporters will know, Rob has been with us from the very start, attending Glazer protest marches, early FC United meetings, coming through the trials and playing in our first ever game in July 2005. But he is clear to stress he isn’t leaving us completely.

"I intend to stay involved in some capacity. Having been here from the beginning, this club is in my blood and I hope to still contribute to its future. It was an honour to play in that first fixture and it’s been a privilege to wear the shirt and play for our amazing supporters ever since.

"I’m going to miss it a hell of a lot but I’ve loved every minute of it. Thanks to everyone who has made the last five years possible and for the amazing support I’ve always received. It’s been an honour and a privilege to play for you all."??

Nuge, the privilege is all ours.

On behalf of everyone at FC United, thanks mate.

Watch just one of Rob’s many FC United highlights by clicking here.