Jim Ervin says making the jump into management was a tougher decision than expected as it meant he had to call time on his playing career.
The 37-year-old has decided to hang up his boots to concentrate on his new managerial job at Ballymena United.
Ervin had been planning to play next season with Carrick Rangers, but insists his full focus will now be on helping transform the fortunes of the Sky Blues.
Read more: Shiels leaves Dungannon Swifts despite Premiership survival success
The former Linfield defender has agreed a three-year contract with the Showgrounds club, after being named as David Jeffrey's successor last week.
Ervin told Belfast Live: "It was probably a harder decision that it's come across. I had a year left playing with Carrick, and from previous experience with ex-players, they always tell you to play for as long as you can, and that you're a long time retired.
"I knew there would be a stage where I had to hang up the boots. I had a year left at Carrick and that would probably have done me.
"But opportunities like these don't come up too often, especially with a big club like Ballymena United. And the history I had with the club.
"That made it a lot easier, but it is still difficult calling time on your career. It hasn't come out officially, but that's me now retired.
"It is full steam ahead with management. People asked if I could do both, but I don't think it is possible.
"This is such a big job, and I feel I need to give it everything and solely concentrate on management."
Asked if he was tempted to combine his managerial duties with playing next season, Ervin ruled out the prospect of making any cameo appearances.
Gary Hamilton is one manager who continues to don the boots when needed at Glenavon. The 42-year-old made three appearances for Glenavon last season, including twice in the Premiership
Ervin said: "No. I am officially retired. Certainly at this minute in time anyway, I don't see how it would work for me.
"I want to commit 100 per cent to my job as manager. If I try to do both then playing would take away from management, and vice versa.
"I want to give everything to Ballymena United on the training pitch and sideline, and I don't think it would benefit me doing both."
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