Irish international Doyle retires over concussion fears

Paris (AFP) – Former Ireland international striker Kevin Doyle announced his immediate retirement from football on Thursday after suffering two concussions and a series of debilitating headaches this season.

Doyle, 34, who had been playing for Colorado Rapids in the MLS in the United States, enjoyed a 16-year career which also included spells at Reading, Wolves, Crystal Palace and QPR in England.

However, fearful for his health, he has hung up his boots on medical advice.

“Today I’m sad to announce that after listening to medical advice I will play no further part this season and will be retiring,” Doyle said in a statement released on his Twitter account.

“This year it has been clear to me that heading the ball was becoming problematic, and causing me to have repeated headaches. Two concussions this season and numerous others over the years have made this more concerning.

“After consulting with experts in the field it has been decided that to avoid the possibility of these symptoms become more serious and permanent, I will be hanging up my boots for good.”

Doyle played 63 times for the Republic of Ireland and played at the 2012 European championships.