Wales striker Simon Church retires aged just 29 after long-term hip injury
Former Charlton, Reading and MK Dons ace has hung up his boots after seeking medical advice
WALES star Simon Church has been forced into early retirement because of a long-term hip problem.
The 29-year-old, who has 38 caps for his country, has been plagued by injuries since undergoing surgery in September 2016.
The former Charlton star had not played since penning a short-term deal with Plymouth Argyle in January.
After seeking medical advice, Church made the announcement on his Twitter and Instagram pages.
Church said: "I never thought this day would come but with the medical advice I have received I am now officially hanging up my boots.
"I have been fortunate enough to have lived my dream for 11 years professionally.
"I have experienced moments you can only dream of when you're a child.
"Playing for Wales was an absolute honour.
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"The achievements we had as a team are something I'm immensely proud of being a part of.
"The group of boys were the best on and off the pitch I have ever been with."
The striker began his career in the youth ranks at Reading, where he scored 22 goals and made over 100 league appearances.
Before he signed for Charlton in 2013, the striker played on loan at Crewe, Yeovil, Wycombe, Leyton Orient and Huddersfield.
He scored 10 goals for the Addicks, before signing for MK Dons in 2015.
Church then went on to play for Dutch side Roda JC and Scunthorpe before his final switch to Plymouth Argyle.
He added: "I want to thank all the clubs I've been at as well as the fans, players, staff and a handful of managers.
"Lastly I would like to thank my family and agent for always being supportive and there for me especially as these last 18 months have probably been the hardest of my journey.
"I now look forward to the next chapter as one door closes many others open."
