Last updated at 11:40, Wednesday, 01 August 2012

Ex-Workington Town and Whitehaven half-back Darren Holt will be restricted to the dugout with Barrow Raiders next term after opting to hang up his boots.

Darren Holt

The 35-year-old, who last week agreed a two-year deal to remain as coach at Craven Park, after leading Raiders to promotion in his first season in charge, has played only nine times this term.

He has been troubled by a groin injury and has not featured since the home win over Town in May, younger half-backs Scott Kaighan and Liam Campbell doing a fine job in his absence.

Holt said: “A 35-year-old/36-year-old playing in the Championship isn’t going to happen. I think the lads this season have proven that they can step up and next season will be exactly that for them again – a step up.

“Hopefully we can retain most, if not all, of the squad and then we can attack next season. You never say never, but I think my playing days are done and dusted.

“I’ve had three retirements already, it’s becoming a bit tired, people don’t want to hear about it any more. But you have to be realistic.

“There are young players here now and I thought our two half-backs, both Scotty and Cammy, have had some superb games, especially against Whitehaven.

“They are becoming a bit of a combination now and hopefully that can continue to grow. Sometimes, there might be an argument there is a need for what I can offer, but physically it is not going to happen.”

First published at 11:29, Wednesday, 01 August 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk