Wales and Cardiff rugby star Matthew Morgan has announced his retirement from rugby due to injury.

Full-back Morgan underwent knee surgery earlier this year, but was unable to recover enough to resume training. The 31-year-old footballer issued a statement this Wednesday expressing deep sadness at the end of his career.

Morgan was capped five times by Wales and made 122 appearances for Cardiff. He had a career with the Ospreys and also played for Bristol. He will now begin his coaching career at Cardiff, Vale College and Port Harlequins.

In an emotional statement, Morgan said: “It is with great sadness that I announce my retirement from professional rugby due to a knee injury.

“During my career, rugby has influenced my life in many ways, it has made me the person I am today. I’ve met some of the most incredible people (coaches, players, medical teams, service staff, chefs, suppliers) who have played a huge role in my career and everyday life.

“I am very grateful to have had this opportunity and thank you to all the clubs I have been lucky enough to play for. From the bottom of my heart, I thank the loyal fans for their continued support and dedication.

“Also, thank you so much to my wife, parents, family and friends for being there through the ups and downs. Rugby will always have a very important place in my heart and I wish the boys all the best for the future.

“I will miss being part of the Cardiff rugby team, but I am looking forward to the next stage of my journey and will always be involved in rugby.”

Cardiff Rugby coach Matt Sherratt paid tribute to the Brintag graduate, saying: “I was lucky enough to coach Matthew three times. First in 2014 in Bristol, then in my two stages in Cardiff.

“It was a pleasure to meet him and work with him. He was a rare talent who could excite the crowd and, behind that, he was a great professional who worked hard on his game.

“Furthermore, he is a wonderful person and we wish him and his young family the best of luck in their next chapter. “He will always be waiting at the Arms Park.”

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