Diskin to hang up his boots

James Gordon

Bradford captain Matt Diskin has announced he will retire at the end of the season.

Diskin, 32, has made 364 appearances in a 14-year career that has taken in representative honours with Great Britain, England and Yorkshire.

He has spent the past four years with Bradford, making a total of 86 appearances, having spent the bulk of his career with Leeds, where he won four Super League titles.

Diskin said: “I have enjoyed a wonderful career, one which I would have happily completed for free.

“I am extremely proud of what I have achieved in the game and, not being the most naturally-gifted player, I have done this through sheer hard work and determination.

“There have been plenty of ups and downs but I live with no regrets. Hindsight is wonderful but I would not have changed a thing.

“In my head, I would like to think I could play for another 10 or 20 years but my body is no longer allowing me to do the things I want it to do.

“Having said that, this is not a decision I have taken lightly. Since the age of eight, all I have ever known is rugby league. It is still very hard to take but the things I have had to administer into my body this year, in order to keep going to this point, is far from healthy.

“I have made this call in order to ensure my longevity as a father, a husband and a person.

“I have been very blessed to have made it this far. I have loved every second of my 14-year career and have been very lucky to have played in some great teams, alongside some exceptional coaches and players.

“I loved my time with Leeds and feel honoured to have captained a brilliant club in Bradford, as well as representing my county and country.

“I will treasure the memories I have made and the people I have met, played with and against. I could not have wished for much more.”

Diskin, who was man of the match in the 2004 Grand Final as Leeds defeated Bradford, also won the World Club Challenge with the Rhinos in 2008.