'Have no regrets' is the call from Ryan Harpur as ex-Dungannon Swifts, Portadown, Ballymena United, Glenavon and Ballymena United ace announces his retirement

Ryan Harpur (left) has announced his retirement from the game after representing five Irish League clubs throughout his career

The ex-Everton, Portadown, Glenavon, Dungannon Swifts, Ballymena United and Annagh United ace has decided to hang his boots up at the age of 35.

Harpur started his career at Everton at the age of 16 and despite not being offered terms to stay at Goodison Park, the tough-tackling midfielder would then make the Irish League his home as he would be on the books at five different clubs.

In total, 'Harps' played a total of 470 games and scored 66 goals for the Swifts, Glenavon, Ballymena United and Annagh United.

He wrote on social media: "I knew this day was always going to come, I just never realised how fast it would come...play every game as if it was your last. Enjoy every moment no matter what the level. I’ve been privileged to have played for some great clubs, represent my country and have met friends for life.

"I’d like to personally thank every club, manager and players that I’ve played with throughout the last 25 years from where it all started to its ending now.

"I've met some fantastic people and friends that I will be forever grateful for.

"Personally it all started with a lot of promise, before accepting rejection at a young age. “It wasn’t to be” - my Dad told me to have no regrets when I left home at 16 and that has stayed with me throughout my journey. I have no regrets!

"I’d like to thank my Mum and Dad for all they have done for me from such a young age and giving me the best chance to do what I always dreamt of doing from when I was 10 years old.

"Unfortunately it didn’t turn out the way I might have liked but have loved and enjoyed every second of it."

Harpur paid special tribute to Dungannon Swifts where he was a player/coach last season and helped the county Tyrone side lift their first ever senior trophy by winning the League Cup in 2018.

During his time at Stangmore Park, Harpur played 244 games for the Swifts and scored 49 goals.

He added: "The longest part of my playing career was spent at Dungannon Swifts FC...a great club with a lot of very special people associated with it. I’m not from Dungannon but have been made feel as if I am. I’ll be forever grateful.

"Thanks to my family; Mum, Dad, wife and two daughters who have and continue to support me throughout the entire journey.

"To all the staff, players and fans at Portadown FC, Everton FC, Glenavon FC, Dungannon Swifts FC , Ballymena United FC and Annagh United FC - thank you for everything. HAVE NO REGRETS!"