Magpies defender Murphy retires from AFL after ongoing concussion concerns

Collingwood premiership defender Nathan Murphy has retired from the AFL on doctors’ advice due to ongoing concussion issues.

Murphy, 24, communicated the decision to his teammates this morning before the club issued a press release about his retirement.

“I feel like it’s the right time and the right decision to hang up my football boots,” Murphy said in the statement.

“I love my football, but my priority is my future and making sure I live a full and healthy life.

“I would like to thank the club, coaches, teammates, staff and the Magpie Army for all their support throughout my playing career and for allowing me the opportunity to realize my childhood dream of playing in the AFL.

“To my family and friends, I could not have gone through this journey without your continued love and support, for which I am very grateful.

“It is not lost on me how lucky I am to have been able to experience premiership success with this group and club. I hope to have made the leap with pride and thank the many people and supporters who have helped me along the way.

“I will always treasure the memories and friends I made at our great club.”

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