Former Ipswich Town loanee Richard Stearman has announced his retirement from football, taking up a first-team coach at Solihull Moors last week. 

The 36-year-old finished his career at the Moors after joining them last summer, dropping into non-league football for the first time in his career.

Stearman made 27 appearances for the West Midlands side, who were beaten by Bromley on penalties in National League play-off final last season. 

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He started his career with Leicester City, before moving on to Wolves, where he helped them win promotion to the Premier League.

The defender reunited with Mick McCarthy when he joined the Blues on loan in the second half of the 2012/13 season, making 15 appearances for the club. 

He also had spells at Fulham, Sheffield United, Huddersfield Town and Derby County during his 20 year career.   

 

 

On hanging up his boots, Stearman said on Twitter (X): "As players we all know that this day will eventually come. However, it has always somehow seemed in the future. That another season playing will just happen, as that's what we do.

"Well for me that day has now arrived. After 20 years and nearly 600 appearances I am announcing my retirement from professional football.

"Reflecting on my career I feel incredibly fortunate and proud to have represented the clubs I have. Thank you to all the managers, coaches, general members of staff and my agent Tam. Without you guys none of it would have been possible.

"To my teammates, thank you. On a day-to-day basis you have made coming into work an absolute joy. We have shared extreme highs and lows together and I am lucky enough to call many of you friends for life. In truth you guys are what I will miss the most.

"To the fans. Thank you for your continued support throughout. As Covid proved, the game is a shadow of itself without you. I feel grateful to have built a special bond with many of you. Please know I have loved my time at each one of your clubs. I am and will continue to be a fan of them all.

"To my parents and sister. Thank you doesn't seem to be enough. Your endless sacrifices have made it possible for me to live my dream. I hope I have made you proud."

 

 

Stearman will now join the coaching ranks at Solihull, working alongside manager Andy Whing at Damson Park.

He will also provide support for their Elite Academy setup and upon joing the coach staff, he said: “I’m really excited to be taking on this role! I got some great experience last year as a player/coach.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity and for how much the gaffer and the coaching staff enabled me to do last season. It was great to learn from them. But now it feels like it’s the right time to go into coaching full-time.”