By Charlie Carey

Ebbsfleet United defender Jack Wakely has retired after a long battle with injury, aged just 24.

The centre-half managed only 12 appearances in two seasons after suffering a multi-ligament knee injury at Barnet in September 2023.

Wakely said: “It’s been a tough couple of seasons here through injuries.

“I worked really hard, working diligently with the medical team but felt like I was at a standstill, so recently I went and saw a sports specialist in London who unfortunately has advised me to consider retiring from football.

“It’s been a tough pill to swallow and I have taken some time to process what he said. Given the reoccurring injuries I was having, I was aware of the fact it may be the case.

“I’m now looking forward to what might be next for me.”

Despite his relatively short time and few games for the Fleet, Wakely, who says he will now consider a career in the financial sector, was popular with supporters.

He added: “The fans have been great with me through the highs and the lows. From coming in and scoring in the first pre-season game and then winning the first game of the season, spirits were high.

“A memory that will stay forever is hobbling up to the bar upstairs on crutches and getting a big round of applause from the supporters.

“I’ll be forever grateful for that.”

Wakely started out at Chelsea and initially joined the Fleet on loan from Wycombe when Dennis Kutrieb was in charge.

A club spokesman said: “We extend our deepest gratitude for Jack’s contributions and wish him every success in the next chapter of his journey.”

Next up for Ebbsfleet is a short trip to Dagenham & Redbridge on Easter Friday (3pm).