CHELMSFORD City goalkeeper Nicky Eyre has retired from football after stating that "The Goalkeeping tightrope that we walk every game has finally snapped for me."
The 29-year-old made the announcement on the blog on his goalkeeping glove website, KZ Goalkeeping, with the decision sure to be a massive shock to the Clarets' fans.
In the statement, Eyre cites his on-going battle with injuries and having to play 'half-fit' as the final reason for the decision.
However, Eyre did go slightly deeper into detail saying:
"For anyone who has followed my career, even casually you will find a host of Non League clubs. Some of which I spent very limited time for various reasons.
"I have continually battled with over analysing and constant 'self doubt' and although this can be linked to a few very specific circumstances I can also openly say that the football industry has beat me.
"From being owed vast amounts of wages to being chewed up and spat out when new managers take over and in most cases just generally given a rough end of the deal.
"I have made every effort on this particular occasion to give 100% to my hometown club with everything sitting perfectly for me to be a huge success.
"Previously It had been suggested that I could not handle the pressure of playing for the club?
"Perhaps to a few closed minds that would be the over all assumption made however there is a real and deep underlying factor here.
"Success is what defines us once our careers are done. For those who have crossed my path will probably see a complete different side to me. Bubbly, encouraging, supremely confident and to those who I am not known by – possibly arrogant, rude and 'difficult.'"
Eyre stated that he has made his feelings known previously to the Clarets' management staff, but also praised the club, saying: "I'm proud to say that I will end my playing career for my hometown club and for a top set of passionate supporters."
