Brisbane Roar skipper Matt McKay has announced that the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 Season will be his last, bringing to an end his 18-year professional journey.
McKay confirmed his retirement on Thursday, bringing down the curtain on a glittering career for club and country.
“I’m grateful for everything football has given me. I’ve had an enjoyable career with plenty of highs and lows, but I’ve always had a smile on my face and that’s what’s made it for me,” McKay said.
“Thank you to all the people who have supported me: my parents, my friends and of course my wife Amanda and our two boys. I’m very grateful for the sacrifices that have been made to help my career.
“I’ve always tried my hardest and I think that’s what has made my career last as long as it it has – I’ve always given my all.
“The thing I cherish is being able to play and work alongside some incredible people. I was there from day one at the Roar and played with some immense players with a great work ethic, which has been really special.”
The 36-year-old has made more than 300 appearances for Roar in all competitions, during which he won the championship-premiership double in the 2010/11 and 2013/14 campaigns.
📅 4,913 days ago, Matt McKay scored his first Brisbane Roar goal.
Our Captain will make a major announcement later today 👀 #RoarAsOne pic.twitter.com/8xJbSySI2t
— Brisbane Roar FC (@brisbaneroar) April 17, 2019
He was captain of the club for that 2010/11 triumph, where the Roar set off on an Australian record 36-game unbeaten run.
McKay also had stints with Rangers in Scotland and clubs in South Korea and China, before returning to Brisbane for their most recent title win five years ago.
As well as his impressive feats at club level, McKay earned 59 caps for the Caltex Socceroos, scoring two goals.
The Brisbane-born midfielder represented Australia at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, and was an integral member of the AFC Asian Cup-winning squad in 2015.
McKay, who also captained the Caltex Socceroos on one occasion in an East Asian Cup qualifier in 2012, joins an impressive list of players who have confirmed their retirement this season.
Sydney FC skipper Alex Brosque, Melbourne Victory captain Carl Valeri, Western Sydney Wanderers attacker Mark Bridge and Perth Glory striker Brendon Santalab are all calling it quits at the end of 2018/19.
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With Brisbane out of the running to play finals football, McKay has just two more matches left in his career.
Both of those games will be at Suncorp Stadium, including Saturday afternoon’s clash against Newcastle Jets. His final match will be against Adelaide United on Anzac Day.