McGeady calls time on career after injury-hit period

McGeady left his player-coaching position at Ayr United two weeks ago

Former Celtic and Republic of Ireland winger Aiden McGeady has retired from playing, more than 20 years after his senior debut.

Beginning his career at Celtic, the 38-year-old went on to feature 231 times for the Glasgow club, scoring 36 goals.

After winning four leagues and three domestic cups, McGeady departed for Spartak Moscow in 2010 for £9.5m, which made him the most expensive export from Scottish football at the time.

The Scotland-born attacker, who won 93 caps for Ireland, then had spells with Everton, Sheffield Wednesday and Preston before a switch to Sunderland in the summer of 2017.

He went on to make 150 appearances for the Black Cats, helping the club win promotion to the Championship.

In 2022 he joined Hibernian, reuniting with former Sunderland boss Lee Johnson, but managed just 14 appearances for the Edinburgh side as injuries struck.

He moved to Ayr United last July and terminated his player-coach contract on 1 October, having last been on the pitch in April.

"I'm officially calling it a day," he wrote on social media. "I've been fortunate enough to live my dream as a footballer, competing in the Champions League, European Championships, and the Premier League.

"I'm deeply grateful to everyone I've had the privilege of playing alongside and meeting throughout this journey. Excited to see what the next chapter brings.

"I have been lucky enough to play for so many great teams in Scotland, England and Russia, brilliant memories, at the best clubs.

"I will never forget the magical times representing Ireland for 13 years and getting to the Euros in the process."