Chris Lyons retires from professional football

Chris Lyons in action for Drogheda United during the 2021 season

Chris Lyons in action for Drogheda United during the 2021 season Credit: Gerry Shanahan (ETPhotos)

Seasoned League of Ireland striker Chris Lyons has called time on his professional career after being plagued by injury issues this term. 

Lyons, 31, lined out with Longford Town earlier on in this campaign season before suffering a knee injury that has ruled him out of action since April. 

And on Monday afternoon he confirmed that he decided to call it a day in the professional ranks.

In doing so, he retired having played with Bray Wanderers, UCD, Bohemians, Shamrock Rovers, Drogheda United, Sligo Rovers, Longford Town and Shelbourne. 

Lyons made over 300 senior League of Ireland appearances and scored 76 times. 

“This hasn’t been an easy decision, probably the  hardest and most difficult decision I have had to make in my career,” Lyons wrote on social media. 

“Due to an ongoing knee injury and my latest scan results it is now time to hang up boots and call it a day.

“The last 14 years have been amazing, so many ups and downs but I would not change a second of it. 

“It has grounded me and made me the man I am today. I have met some amazing people and made some great memories that I will carry with me.



“I have dedicated my life to football and I feel like I have given 110% to every club that I have played under. 

“Firstly I would like to thank my family and my close friends who have supported me along the way. I would also like to thank all my teammates, managers, coaches, staff and all of the supporters over the last 14 years . 

“It has been an honour to represent myself and my family as a professional footballer. I feel incredibly lucky and blessed to have had the opportunity to play at this level.”

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