Tranmere Rovers goalkeeper and club captain Scott Davies has retired from professional football at the age of 34.
Davies will go down as a legend at Prenton Park, with 238 league appearances to his name for Rovers.
He was part of teams that won promotions from the National League right up to League One, spending the last six-and-a-half years at the club.
An Achilles injury in March 2021 forced Davies out of action, and he has now been forced to call time on his playing career.
“Sadly I have been told I need to make the decision to retire from professional football,” Davies, who hasn’t featured this season, said.
“A day I never thought would actually come. While I am still a player at Tranmere Rovers I will do everything I can behind the scenes to help the club achieve its aims.
“I’ve been lucky enough to live the dream, from jumpers for goalposts when I was a kid to leading my team out at Wembley. A journey full of the highest highs and lowest lows. I’m truly thankful for all of it.”
Davies made 460 league appearances over his career for four different clubs.
He joined Tranmere from Fleetwood in 2015 after a long spell with the Cod Army, winning the then Conference Premier League in 2012 to gain them promotion to the Football League.
“I have to say a huge thank you to my wife Claire and children Sonny and Rudy for understanding the sacrifices,” Davies added.
“And all of my family and friends who supported me in good times and bad. Especially my mum, you gave me everything I needed to chase my dream as a child. Without you it wouldn’t have been possible.”
Tranmere chairman Mark Palios shared his thoughts on Davies’ time with the club, a time in which two promotions and a cup final were achieved.
“Scotty has been one of the most influential players in and around the club for most of my time here,” Palios said.
“He not only contributed on the pitch through two promotions and four trips to Wembley but also bridged the gap between the dressing room and the boardroom over a period which saw the club through the non-league period and into League One as well as through the impact of the pandemic.”
Fans rushed to social media to thank Davies for his service to the club. Many shared memories and photos that they have with him as they wished him well in his retirement.
Among those was vice-chairman Nicola Palios, who reminded him that there is still work to be done off the pitch this season.
“A brilliant servant to the club, you will be sorely missed Scotty,” Nicola Palios said.
“But before you go, we’ve got the small matter of a promotion charge and your experience will be invaluable. Would be great to go out on a high and an end-of season party – let’s make it happen.”
Davies will remain in and around the club for the remainder of the season as he remains under contract.
