Brian Carey hopes to forge a new career in football as a coach

The Irish centre-back, 37, has been sidelined since last October and was out of contract at the Racecourse.

"It was difficult, but it was a decision I had to make because symptons returned last week and I was struggling to get up and down stairs," Carey said.

"It is sad, but it's time for me to step aside and let some of the younger lads come in and take over."

Carey played 303 games for the Dragons, having joined from Leicester for �100,000 in 1996.

He started his career at Cork City before securing a transfer to Manchester United, from where he spent two periods on loan at the Racecourse.

"I would have like to have carried on for another season at least, but this is part and parcel of football," said Carey, who won three caps for the Republic of Ireland during his career.

"My Ireland caps mean an awful lot to me and I've got some great memories with Wrexham as well - particularly the FA Cup victories we've had at the Racecourse over the years.

Wrexham manager Denis Smith had hoped to offer Carey a new contract until receiving the latest medical news.

Carey hopes to continue in football in a coaching capacity, but the current financial situation at Wrexham, with the club still in administration, means he may have to look elsewhere.

Smith is also concerned about a thigh injury to Jim Whitley that has kept the midfielder out since January.

Whitley is guaranteed a place in the 20-man squad allowed under administration rules, as he has 12 months left on his Racecourse contract.