Irish footballer Brian Lenihan has been forced to retire from the game at the age of just 23.
Lenihan, who is from Cork, joined Hull City in August 2014 on a three-year deal for what was reported to be a £200,000 fee.
In a statement released via Twitter, the former Cork City defender said he was calling time on his career following medical advice.
Brian Lenihan statement:
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone associated with Hull City AFC for the care and support I have received over the past 4 years. From a medical point of view the staff have gone above and beyond for me and for that I will be forever grateful!
In light of events late last year, it is with deep regret that I have had to retire from Professional Football. Having to retire at 23 is something I did not foresee.. but such is life! This decision does not come lightly but due to the medical advice I have received it is an action that needs to be taken for my own wellbeing.
I'd like to give a special thanks to Dr Mark Waller, Rob Price, Alan Peacham and Ruben Crespo for the exemplary care and support they have given me during my time at the club.
I'd also like to express my gratitude to Steve Bruce, Mike Phealan, Marco Silva -and Nigel Adkins for their advice and guidance during my time at the club.
Sometimes in life you need to give up on a life long dream to ensure you live a happy and more fulfilling life!
Much Love Brian Lenihan
Due to numerous knee injuries, the right-back made just four appearances during his time in English football. Two starts came while on loan at Blackpool shortly after signing with Hull. It was while at Blackpool that his injury troubles started.
20 months after joining Hull - following recovery from knee surgery - Lenihan made his debut for the club, starting a 1-0 win away to Bolton.
There was another long gap before the former Ireland U21 international's next appearance: a start against Doncaster in the League Cup back in August of last year.
Despite his injury problems, he handed a new one-year contract by Hull last May.
