Former Charlton Athletic and Ebbsfleet United defender Chris Solly announces his retirement from playing at the age of 33

Former Ebbsfleet defender Chris Solly has announced his retirement from playing.

The 33-year-old, who was released by the Fleet at the end of last season, has decided to hang up his boots to concentrate on his coaching career.

But former Charlton man Solly has also suggested that his immediate future does not lie with Ebbsfleet in a coaching capacity.

Solly said: “Making this decision for any player can never come easy but this is my time now to say goodbye to my footballing playing days.

“It has been an absolute privilege to play this game and represent two clubs that will both hold huge places in my heart, allowing me to create some of the best days of my life.”

Solly joined Ebbsfleet in January 2021 and went on to make 101 appearances, captaining the side to the National League South title in 2022/23.

He added: “Joining Ebbsfleet during the pandemic has turned out to be an incredible decision that has brought great success, a huge love for the club and opportunities as a player/coach to work on the other side of the footballing world.

“Achieving promotion in the style we did, and then helping to keep the club in the National League has been brilliant. The club really does have the platform, spirit, and drive to keep improving and with Damian (Irvine) as chief executive, Danny (Searle, manager) and Anwar (Uddin, assistant manager) in charge, next season really looks like an exciting challenge for the club.”

While his immediate future appears to be away from Ebbsfleet, Solly does intend to carry on his coaching path.

“Football helped teach me everything I know, and now is the time to start passing on my knowledge and experiences to help others chasing their dreams,” he added.

“One huge chapter closes but I couldn’t be