FORMER Republic of Ireland international Ian Harte has announced his retirement at the age of 37.
Harte played 63 times for Ireland, scoring 12 goals, during a club career that saw him turn out most notably for Leeds United, but also for Levante, Sunderland, Blackpool, Carlisle and Reading.
He finished his career with Bournemouth, who he helped achieve promotion to the Premier League last season before being released by the Cherries. After considering his future this summer, Harte took to Twitter to confirm his decision to retire.
The time has come to hang the boots up. I have had over 20 years playing football and loved every minute of it!!! Now to the next chapter
— Ian Harte (@ianharte23) August 27, 2015
Harte’s announcement has already prompted tributes from the likes of Ken Doherty and former Ireland team-mate Kevin Kilbane.
Renowned for being a free-kick specialist in his prime, here is the Drogheda native doing what he did best for Leeds United against Manchester United.
In a subsequent interview with Talksport, Harte confirmed he has no intention of going into coaching as he is looking forward to spending more time with his young family.
