Irishman Boland made 336 Football League appearances

Hartlepool midfielder Willie Boland has retired from professional football after 14 months out with a knee injury.

The Irishman, 34, made 336 Football League appearances for Coventry, Cardiff and Pools, with his last game against Stockport on 23 August 2008.

He told the club website: "I've got used to not playing. I wouldn't be able to do myself justice.

"I want to stay in the sporting side of things, whether it be in coaching, fitness or working in the community."

Director of sport Chris Turner said: "He's been an excellent servant to football.

"I'm sure he still has a lot to offer the game if he wants to continue his involvement in some other way."

Boland started his career as a Coventry youngster, playing 71 times, before moving to Cardiff in 1999, where he scored four goals in 243 appearances.

606: DEBATE Have your say on Boland's career

The Ennis-born veteran spent seven years in South Wales, before moving to Hartlepool in 2006.

He made 72 appearances for the Victoria Park outfit and was a regular in the first team before injury made the 1-0 defeat by Stockport his last appearance in professional football.

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