Portadown captain Johnny Flynn forced to retire due to injury

Portadown captain Johnny Flynn has been forced to hang up his boots with immediate effect at the age of 29 due to ongoing injury problems.

The defender joined the Ports ahead of the current season from Ballymena United and the Championship club’s manager Matthew Tipton handed him the captaincy straight away.

The former Northern Ireland under-21 centre-half started the season well in a Ports side who are locked in a battle for second spot with Dundela and Loughgall behind runaway leaders Larne.

Ex-Blackburn Rovers and Ross County defender Flynn has decided he can no longer play to the standard he feels is required and has had his contract rescinded by mutual consent.

“He came to me a few weeks ago to say it was with regret that he felt his body wasn’t able to do what he knew he should be doing for us,” said Tipton.

“I know that this couldn’t have been an easy decision for Jonny to make, especially as he is only 29, but it shows the mark of the man that he’s made this call instead of just sitting around on his money.

“I would like to place on record my thanks to Jonny for everything he has done on & off the field so far this season & I wish him every success & happiness in his life now after football.”