“It’s been on my mind to finish playing for the last couple of years, but this time I’ve had to make a decision. I’ve had to listen to my body,” the 34-year-old told Wales Online.
“Usually, whenever I went into a new season I set myself a specific challenge. For last couple of years, that challenge was just to be able to get out there on the pitch and be able to play.
“I guess over the years I’ve become accustomed to the pain from various injuries, but for the last three to four years I’ve been on anti-inflammatories every day.
“I’m not sure my body will think that’s a wise thing in due course, but it kept me playing for that period. However, the time has come to stand aside and say enough.
“Of course I want to keep playing, that’s the best thing for any footballer. But I’m looking forward to not having to put my body through the pain, I have to say.
“I could go to the Major Soccer League across the Atlantic, I’ve had offers from clubs in England. But it’s not just the playing and training, it’s the maintenance work I have to do on my body in order to be able to play. The extra hour of strengthening work I have to do after training, that type of thing.
“If I’m honest, I’ve had a few sleepless nights over the last three to four months. How am I going to handle it, I’ve not completely prepared myself for not playing?
“Not waking up in pain at the moment is nice, I can enjoy it. When the season starts, it could be a different matter.
“But I do have lots of business activities to keep me busy and I’m taking my full coaching badges. I’ve got A, B and C, I just need to do the Pro-Licence which will prepare me properly for management.
“I plan to visit lots of football club, home and abroad, look at training in different sports, to broaden my knowledge. Then, when the management opportunity comes, I will be as fully prepared as possible.”
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