Barry Ferguson Retires

Following the news published on Friday that Barry Ferguson will not be able to play again this season due to injury, it’s now been confirmed that the Clyde manager has been forced to officially retire from the game.

Barry enjoyed a long and highly successful career in football, during which time he amassed a number of honours including five Scottish Premier League titles, five Scottish Cup victories, an English League Cup winner’s medal and 45 Scotland caps.

Speaking to the official website, Barry gave the background to his difficult decision:-

“It was always my intention to concentrate on managing the team and play if it would help the squad. After a poor run of form in September, I decided that was the case and I named myself in the starting line-up for the home match against Annan Athletic. During the game I picked up a knock on my ankle and I had to come off early in the second half. 

“I’ve spoken to my consultant at length since then and also considered another operation to find a solution, but unfortunately that had a risk of long-term damage. I had a course of injections in January which were also unsuccessful and I had to confirm to the Chairman last week that I would not be able to play competitively again.

“I’ve had an unbelievable career and I don’t want to risk any long-term damage by playing first team football again. I’m grateful that I can still do my own training, keep myself fit and take part in an occasional charity match, but without being able to train at full intensity I won’t be able to play senior football again.”

Clyde Chairman, John Alexander added:-

“When Barry was appointed as Clyde manager, he was clear in his mind that he would play as required. He decided that was the case for the Annan match last year and, despite his ankles being heavily strapped, it was clear to everyone watching that he made a difference to the team. Unfortunately, the clumsy tackle that ended his involvement in the match early proved to be a significant setback.

“Barry is not the type of character to throw in the towel and he hasn’t wanted the focus throughout the season to be on his own injury situation. He initially thought a tidy-up operation to adjust metalwork from previous surgery would allow him to play again. However, tests then showed that the problem was more serious and, after trying different treatments, he’s been forced to announce his retirement.”