Yeovil Town are sad to announce that Darren Way has formally announced that he is retiring from the playing side of the game.

The dimunitive midfielder, who played 274 games for the Glovers, has been recovering from a serious car accident in December 2008.

The injuries, including a broken left femur and a broken and dislocated left hip, have proved too much to overcome despite the Glovers legend fighting hard to resume his career.

Speaking at lunchtime, Darren said "It's been a long process since the day of the accident. I've been through a lot - nine operations, the trauma and a lot of medication - not to mention the mental and physical aspect."

"It's very disappointing that I can't play for the gaffer and give him 110% but I'll be giving him everything in my role on the technical coaching side of things. I'll still be heavily involved on matchdays preparing the team  with the other members of the staff."

"I can't thank the club enough for what they've done for me. The club and the PFA have worked so hard to get the situation resolved and I'd like to also thank the chairman for all his help too."

Chief executive Martyn Starnes spoke warmly of the 30-year-old Plymouth-born player. "Darren has iconic status at the club. What happened was devastating to him and his family and we have tried to support him as much as we could. We think he still has a future at the club in a technical coaching role and will assist in the matchday preparations."

Manager Terry Skiverton said "It's sad news for supporters, everyone has lost out. Darren has always wanted to be a professional footballer and to have it taken away from him in just a few seconds is so sad."

"Today has shown the togetherness in the squad. As he came in today, he was given a clap by the lads and a few of them gave him a hug as well."

"He's a strong character and he will fit in with the rest of my close knit team; Nathan, Ben and Simon. I've offered him a role at the club because he brings something fresh to the table."

Darren added "I've been having sleepless nights about today and in one way, it's a weight off my mind. Fans have been coming up to me asking if I was going to carry on playing and I know now that I tried everything I could to get back. Being a footballer is one of the best jobs in the world, that's why it's so hard to accept."

Darren's injuries, sustained in the crash in December 2008 left him needing nine operations to put right. His bravery, dedication, commitment and purpose has helped his recovery thus far and those qualities will now be needed in the next step of his football career.

Extracts from Darren's press conference and an interview with Darren himself will appear on Glovers Player shortly.

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