Brett Ormerod: Ex Leeds United loanee announces retirement from football

The striker, who made six appearances for the Whites in 2004 missing a penalty on his debut, joined Bamber Bridge at the start of the season after a glittering career in the professional game, which saw him grace the Premier League and play in the FA Cup final.

Recently, Ormerod has been absent from the team after suffering a calf strain and has now decided the time is right to hang up his boots after 20-plus years involved in senior football.

“It was a tough decision, but I think it’s the right time,” Ormerod said.“I had a calf injury and have been waking up after games feeling like someone has beaten me up.

“With all the pitches being heavy after the bad weather we’ve had I decided to call it a day. In my head I’m still a 21-year-old striker and want to run around like one, but in reality I was more like the Tin Man from Wizard of Oz. It’s the right decision.”

Ormerod said his greatest moment in the game was scoring the winning goal for Blackpool in the 2010 play-off final which saw the club win promotion to the Premier League, but he added: “I have been so lucky to play for some incredible clubs.