(Reuters) – Former Australia goalkeeper Adam Federici has introduced his retirement resulting from damage lower than a month earlier than the beginning of the brand new A-League season.

The 36-year-old had been named captain at Macarthur FC following the retirement of Mark Milligan on the finish of final season, however he’ll not lead the membership when the league returns on Nov. 19.

“I’ve been so lucky to have the profession I’ve had,” Federici mentioned in an announcement launched by the membership.

“Whereas I’d’ve beloved to steer the Bulls this season, my physique is in a unique place and can’t proceed.

“By my journey I’ve performed with fantastic coaches, gamers and golf equipment and I am grateful that I acquired to complete my profession on my dwelling turf.”

Federici performed 16 instances for Australia and spent a lot of his profession in England, that includes for Studying in each the Premier League and the Championship for 11 seasons earlier than shifting to Bournemouth and, in 2018, Stoke Metropolis.

He returned to Australia in 2020 to affix Macarthur for the membership’s inaugural season within the A-League.

“I’m honoured to have been capable of characterize Australia and my time with the nationwide staff will keep fondly in my recollections ceaselessly,” he mentioned.

“For now, my focus is to work on restoration, however I look ahead to what the sport has in retailer for me going ahead.”

Federici’s retirement leaves Macarthur coach Ante Milicic searching for a brand new captain and senior goalkeeper forward of the membership’s season opener in opposition to Wellington Phoenix on Nov. 21.

“It is a unhappy day for Bulls followers understanding Adam will not be a part of the squad this season, however as a membership we are going to assist and assist him by way of his rehab and proceed the connection constructed to increase ultimately sooner or later,” he mentioned.

(Reporting by Michael Church, Modifying by Himani Sarkar)