Roberts' last game was a 0-0 draw with Gillingham in August

Walsall defender Stephen Roberts has decided to quit the game at the age of 29 after battling with a back problem.

The former Wales international and Wrexham man managed only 21 first-team appearances for the Saddlers after signing from Doncaster in July 2008.

"Some things transcend football and his long-term health is more important," team-mate Rhys Weston told BBC WM.

"He's got a young family to look after and obviously his priorities are with them," the defender said.

"I've been fortunate enough to know Stephen for a number of years with the Welsh set-up - he's a very, very good player and a lovely lad as well."

Since I've been with the club he's not really been fit - he's been nearly there. He feels he hasn't quite got back to where he should be Walsall manager Chris Hutchings

Saddlers boss Chris Hutchings shares Roberts' disappointment, having inherited the defender when he succeeded Jimmy Mullen in January.

"We know he's got other interests outside football, and I think he's going to pursue those," Hutchings said of the keen artist.

"Since I've been with the club he's not really been fit - he's been nearly there. He feels he hasn't quite got back to where he should be."

Roberts' fellow centre-back Mark Hughes emphasized that everyone at the Banks's Stadium is frustrated that he has been forced to hang up his boots.

"He's only 29, which is not really that old. He's been good to me and made me feel welcome," said the former Northampton defender.

"He's made his decision and hopefully that's best for him and his family, and I wish him all the best for the future."

Walsall are now redoubling their efforts to keep Manchester City centre-back Clayton McDonald on loan for a second month.

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