George Friend: Bristol Rovers defender to become director of football
- Published
George Friend made 12 appearances for Rovers after joining the club last summer
Bristol Rovers defender George Friend is to retire from playing with immediate effect to become the club's director of football.
The 36-year-old joined the League One side last summer, where he played as a youth, and made 12 appearances.
He also played at Middlesbrough, Exeter, Doncaster Rovers and Birmingham during his 19-year career.
"I've learnt something from every single person on my journey," Friend said.
"I want to thank all those who helped me achieve more than I could have ever imagined. Team-mates, staff, managers, owners and fans.
"I now remain determined and ambitious to succeed in my role here at Rovers.
"It is where I started my footballing journey as a youngster, and it feels very apt that it's where I will finish playing."
Rovers' chief scout Chris Spendlove has also been promoted to the club's head of recruitment, while Adam Mahoney is to be the head of data and analysis.
Eddy Jennings was the League One club's most recent head of football operations before he left last year.
"This new department is a step forward for the football club. We will give this team our full backing and all the tools they need to help us achieve success. We wish them well in their new roles," said club chairman Hussain AlSaeed.
Manager Matt Taylor, who took over in December, said he was "excited by what the future will bring".
"There is a lot of work to do ahead of the summer, and the team are already working tirelessly to ensure that we attract the right players to the club," he added.