Former Liverpool defender retires at 29 due to Motor Neurone Disease

Bolton Wanderers defender Stephen Darby has retired from football at the age of 29 after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
Darby, who played for Liverpool in the Champions League after coming through their academy system, last played football in December.
Motor Neurone Disease involves progressive damage to the nerves, leading to muscle wastage. There is currently no cure. Ex-Blackburn Rovers, Hartlepool, Bury, Burnley and Swansea City footballer Len Johnrose is a sufferer. .
Darby, who is married to Manchester City Women and England international Steph Houghton, recently received the diagnosis from a specialist.
It is with great sadness that I announce my immediate retirement from professional football due to a recent diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease.
“I would like to take the opportunity to thank my teammates, Phil Parkinson and all the staff at Bolton Wanderers Football Club for their amazing support at what has been an extremely difficult period for myself and my family.
“I would like to ask for privacy at this time so I can adjust to the battle I have ahead and so that I can spend time with those closest to me.”

Liverpool Football Club are saddened by the news of Stephen Darby’s retirement after he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

Darby came through the ranks at hometown club Liverpool, making his first competitive appearance as a substitute in their Champions League game against PSV Eindhoven in Dec 2008.

He spent loan spells with Swindon Town, Notts County and Rochdale before moving to Bradford City in 2012 and making 236 appearances.

The right-back switched to Bolton in the summer of 2017 where he was reunited with former Bradford manager Phil Parkinson.

Away from the pitch, Darby was heavily involved with the Players Football Association, as a club delegate and former management committee member.

Matthew Buck, director of player management at the PFA, said: “Stephen has become a good friend over the years and knowing Stephen throughout his football career I am sure he will face the future with the same determination and resolve he shown throughout his football career.