St Johnstone club captain Dave Mackay has announced his retirement as a player following two operations on a hip problem in recent years.
The 35-year-old former Dundee and Oxford United defender joined Saints from Livingston in 2009 and skippered Tommy Wright's team to a historic Scottish Cup triumph against Dundee United in 2014.
He told the club website: “The decision hasn't been an easy one but I've had to take into consideration that I don't want to do irreversible damage that affects me away from football.
“I'll obviously miss playing but my decision opens up plenty of other opportunities for me, both short and long term, and I'm thoroughly enjoying my involvement with the Under 20s just now.
“The club has done everything it could have to help in my recovery and I thank them for that. I thank the fans for their support over the past seven years and assure them I'll be around the club for some time yet.”
Chairman Steve Brown added: “We will endeavour to keep Dave in and around the club on match days and also during the week, where we will provide every assistance to him as he attempts to build his coaching experience and gain additional coaching badges.”
