IRISH footballer Brian Lenihan has been forced to retire at the age of just 23 due to injury.
The Hull City defender, who began his career at College Corinthians in Cork moving to Cork City in 2012, has been hampered by recurring knee injuries in recent years.
He has now been forced to hang up his boots on medical advise just months after he captained his club in the Championship.
Lenihan has seven Republic of Ireland U21 caps and had trained with the senior squad.
The Cork native confirmed his retirement in a social media post this morning.
He tweeted: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone associated with Hull City AFC for the care and support I have received over the past 4 years.
— Brian Lenihan (@brian_lenihan12) April 18, 2018
"From a medical point of view the staff have gone above and beyond for me and for that I will be forever grateful!
"In light of events late last year, it is with deep regret that I have had to retire from Professional Football.
"Having to retire at 23 is something I did not foresee.. but such is life! This decision does not come lightly but due to the medical advice I have received it is an action that needs to be taken for my own wellbeing.
"I'd like to give a special thanks to Dr Mark Waller, Rob Price, Alan Peacham and Ruben Crespo for the exemplary care and support they have given me during my time at the club.
"I'd also like to express my gratitude to Steve Bruce, Mike Phealan, Marco Silva and Nigel Adkins for their advice and guidance during my time at the club.
"Sometimes in life you need to give up on a life long dream to ensure you live a happy and more fulfilling life!
"Much Love, Brian Lenihan."
