Former Ireland international Eddie Nolan calls time on playing career

Former Republic of Ireland international Eddie Nolan has called time on his playing career after 20 years as a professional.

Nolan won all three of his caps in 2009, making his debut against Nigeria in a friendly at Craven Cottage. He also saw game time in a defeat to Australia and a victory over South Africa, both played at Thomand Park.

His club career brought the Waterford native to the UK, where he played in the Championship for Preston North End and Sheffield Wednesday, while also enjoying spells at Scunthorpe United and Crewe Alexandra.

He returned to his hometown club in the middle of the 2021 season, playing his final professional game for The Blues in their 2-2 draw with Galway last Friday.

"After 20 years of living my dream of playing professional football, now feels the right time to retire and look forward to the next chapter of my life," he said in a statement released by Waterford FC.

"From my debut away to Finn Harps to my final game last Friday, it has been an honour to play for the Blues and end my career at my hometown club.

"I have hung my boots up but I will continue to coach the young talent in the academy, a role I take great pride in. A big thank you to all my managers, coaches, teammates, supporters over the years for playing a huge part in my career.

"To my biggest fans, my wife, son, parents, brothers and friends I am forever grateful for the support and sacrifices you made for me throughout my career."

Nolan is set to stay on with Waterford in an academy coaching role, with the Blues looking to return to the Premier Division after losing out in the last two promotion/relegation play-off finals.