Histon defender Craig Pope has retired after failing to overturn a Football Association ban for racial abuse.

Pope was handed a four-match ban for using 'abusive and/or insulting words aggravated by a racial element' during the Boxing Day game with Cambridge.

The 25-year-old right-back denies the claims and chose to challenge the ruling in an attempt to clear his name.

In a club statement, he said: "I cannot continue to play football knowing people will say I said this."

Despite failing in his appeal, the former Cambridge City man continues to maintain his innocence.

"I believe the charge against me was unfounded and the outcome unjust...I am devastated by this decision," he said.

Histon supported Pope in both the original hearing and the subsequent appeal, and manager Steve Fallon would like to see the right-back return to his squad following the suspension.

"I am hoping Craig will reconsider his decision and not sacrifice his career over this matter," he said.