BANGOR 1876 player Iwan Williams has announced his retirement due to injury.

The 34-year-old, who has previously managed Llandudno and Caernarfon Town, joined the fan-owned club in the summer but has now decided to call it a day on advice from doctors following medical examinations this week.

Williams was forced off after just four minutes in 1876’s JD Welsh Cup defeat to Ruthin Town with a recurrence of an Achilles injury that sidelined him for several weeks at the start of the campaign.

Manager Mel Jones said: "He's a great character in the changing room and somebody that’s been an important part of the club’s early success.

"We’re all absolutely devastated for him on a personal level, and it's a big blow for the team as well. He's been fantastic for us but the most important thing is his long-term health."

It is believed Williams will remain part of the set-up in a coaching capacity and he also recently agreed to succeed Campbell Harrison as Ynys Mon boss.

The midfielder enjoyed a standout career at high-profile clubs such as Porthmadog, Llandudno, Newtown and Connah’s Quay Nomads before embarking on a managerial career that saw him win the Huws Gray Alliance title at Caernarfon Town before moving to the JD Cymru Premier with Llandudno.

In a statement, Williams said: “To be given the prognosis by the doctors on Monday night and told to give up all sporting activity or run the risk of not walking again, was really difficult to take.

“Especially having done everything in my power to get back fit and ready for such a big game. To then end my career after only four minutes of the match just compounds my luck of late.

“However, I’m an optimist and will be back on the mend in no time to help this club continue the fantastic work that’s already been done, in any capacity they require.

“A huge thank you to everyone for the support and messages over the last few days. It’s been a privilege to be part of this story and movement thus far, and I’m just gutted I couldn’t help the young lads, from a playing capacity, more than I was able to do.”