Auckland FC goalkeeper Scott Morris has announced his retirement from professional football.
Morris, 24, took the difficult decision after the recurrence of hip injury and following advice from medical specialists.
“It is unfortunate, I was looking forward to starting again at Auckland FC and giving my all for the club. Sadly, it wasn’t to be, but I need to think of my future beyond football, and my health must come first.”
Nelson-born Morris grew up playing for Richmond Athletic before spending time with Wairarapa United, Tasman United, and Hawkes Bay United.
He made his name after two fantastic seasons at Christchurch United, securing a move to Stoke City, then in the Championship – the second tier of English football.
Morris now plans to spend some time overseas before focusing on his studies.
“Luckily, I have plenty to keep me busy outside of football. I’m going to spend some time sitting on a beach relaxing; it’s been a long time since I’ve done that. And then I am also studying for a degree in criminal justice and law, so I will put my all into that.”
Auckland FC director of football, Terry McFlynn, said the club were supportive of Morris’s decision to retire.
“It is such a difficult decision for a player to make; they’ve often spent years focused on playing professional football, so the decision to retire is never an easy one,” says McFlynn.
“It is a brave decision to make, and we will be providing Scott with any support he needs. We’ve also been working closely with the medical specialists who are advising Scott and are understanding of the decision to prioritise his future health.”
