Hull Kingston Rovers centre Sean Gleeson has been forced to retire from the game with immediate effect, aged just 26.
Gleeson – cousin of Salford star Martin – had been battling a serious eye injury suffered earlier in the campaign and, after consulting with medical experts, has called time on his career.
Gleeson only signed up with the Robins last season, but injuries to his back – as well as a broken leg – have kept him off the field, and this latest blow has forced him to call it a day.
He said in a statement: “It is with saddened regret that I have made the decision to retire from the great sport of rugby league.
“Coming to terms with this news has been difficult but I would like to thank my agent, Martin Shuttleworth, for his support and guidance during these hard times as well as Mike Smith at Hull KR for his support and understanding of the circumstances I have been going through.
“I would also like to say a big thank you to the Hull KR fans for welcoming me to the club and to Hull, where I have made so many friends in and out of rugby league.
“Lastly, I would like to thank Craig Sandercock for believing in me, giving me the chance to play for a club with such great heritage and for standing by me through the injuries that I sustained. I have learned so much from Craig and have massive respect for him.”
