Huddersfield Skipper Mark Hudson Retires From Football Just Four Days Before Start of the Season
Huddersfield Town defender Mark Hudson has hung up his boots just days before the club start their Premier League season, joining Terriers boss David Wagner’s coaching staff, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Hudson racked up over 100 appearances for the West Yorkshire club, but has decided to call it day despite signing an improved three-year deal with the Premier League new-boys last summer.
Though the abruptness of the 35-year-old’s retirement will come as a surprise to many, it was assumed that the former Cardiff City defender would assume a coaching role after he finished his 15-year playing career.
Speaking to the press following the announcement, Terriers boss David Wagner said; “I'm very happy that Mark is becoming part of my back-room staff.
“From my first day in England, Mark has been one of the biggest positives.
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“He is a huge influence in our dressing room - a total professional with a winning mentality - and that was why securing his future to Huddersfield Town was so important last April.
“As a player and a potential coach, it was vital that we keep Mark here.
“Make no mistake, Mark made a huge contribution to the success this club enjoyed in 2016-17, both through his performances on the field and his influence off it.
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Wagner also reflected on the difficulties of transitioning into coaching after a playing career ends;
“I know retirement can feel like a sad day as a former player, but he has so much still to give this club and football, and that is exciting.
“We will all help Mark as much as we can as he makes the transition into coaching and continues to learn, but I'm sure he will still be a big help and influence on our squad as we prepare for the Premier League.”
