FORMER City favourite Willy Boland has been forced into retirement by a persistent knee injury.
The Irishman who was bought from Coventry City in 1999 spent seven seasons at Cardiff City, playing 209 games and scoring three goals. During the 2000-2001 story he won club player of the year for his tough-tackling all-action performances - something always appreciated by the City faithful.
Willie finished his career at League Two side Hartlepool.
He told the club's website: "It was very difficult to come to this decision but to be honest, I've been out for over a year so I've got used to not playing in that time.''
''I just felt in myself that my knee was never going to be the same again and if I did get back I wouldn't be able to do myself justice.''
Good luck Willie with your future career. We always thought you were better than Mark Bonner!
