Liverpool defender Gilly Flaherty has made the decision to retire from playing at the age of 31.
FAWSL Full-Time were informed of the news via an official club press release from Liverpool just a short time ago.
Flaherty has made the decision to hang up her boots for family reasons, following a short period of reflection.
The defender is a Barclays Women’s Super League legend. She has spent her entire career playing at the top level with Arsenal, Chelsea, West Ham United and Liverpool. Flaherty has won five Barclays Women’s Super League titles, seven Vitality Women’s FA Cups and the UEFA Women’s Cup along with a whole host of other honours. Flaherty joined latest club Liverpool in the summer and she was a regular starter for The Reds in the first half of the season. She will now look to take on new challenges away from the game after deciding to announce her retirement.
Following today’s announcement, Flaherty said “I’ve taken the decision to retire from professional football. It isn’t a decision I’ve taken lightly but one I’ve reached after speaking with those closest to me.
“Losing my dad just before Christmas has left me heartbroken – for 22 years we shared our love of football and playing wise I don’t want to carry on without him by my side.
“Playing wise I know the right decision is for me to call it a day. The time is right for me to be around my family and to be nearest to those closest to me.
“I want to thank Liverpool, especially Beardy (Matt Beard) and Russ (Fraser) for bringing me to the club.
“I’d also like to thank the Liverpool fans for supporting me and taking me in. Even though it has not been a finished journey I’d like to think the fans saw commitment and dedication to the badge from me and I gave 110% in every game.
“I also wish to thank the players for being there for me throughout my time at the club and I wish them nothing but success for the rest of the season.”
Flaherty ends her career with 177 Barclays Women’s Super League appearances to her name, a record in the competition.
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