Former Wolves record signing Kevin Doyle retires after repeated concussion

The 34-year had been playing in the MLS for Colorado Rapids and took advice from consultants before making his decision.

Republic of Ireland international Doyle was Wolves' record signing when he moved to Molineux for £6.5million from Reading at the start of the 2009/10 season.

Doyle played a starring role as Mick McCarthy's side comfortably avoided relegation from the Premier League, scoring nine goals in 34 appearances - including the winning goal at White Hart Lane when Wolves beat Spurs 1-0.

He would stay with the club until 2015 when, after loan spells with Crystal Palace and QPR, he signed for Colorado.

In a statement Doyle said heading the ball had become 'problematic' and that two concussions this season alone have forced him to take medical advice.

"This year been clear to me that heading the ball was becoming problematic and causing me to have repeated headaches," he said.

"Two concussions this season and numerous others over the years have made this more concerning.

"After consulting with experts in this field, it has been decided that to avoid the possibility of these symptoms becoming more serious and permanent, I will be hanging up my boots for good."

In total Doyle scored 33 goals in 179 Wolves appearances, with his most memorable arguably coming in the famous 2-1 victory over Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United in February 2011 when Doyle headed the winner, which ended United's unbeaten league record that season.

Former Wolves team mate David Edwards said: "An absolute pleasure to have played with you Doyler. All the best in your retirement pal, a career you can be proud of!"

Current captain Danny Batth added: "You've had a great career to be proud of Doyler enjoy retirement and hope the family is well!"

And former fitness coach Tony Daley said: "Fantastic career Doyler, you have been a credit to the game."

The Wexford native originally played for St Patricks Athletic and then Cork City, where his career first shot to prominence, scoring 25 goals in 76 appearances. He then moved to Reading and was part of their record-breaking promotion to the Premier League in 2006.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time with the Colorado Rapids and playing in MLS has been a fantastic experience,” Doyle added. “I would have loved to have taken the opportunity offered to stay for another year. The staff, players and fans here have made me, and more importantly, my family feel at home in Denver and we will miss it.”