'I wouldn’t change a single thing': Former Linfield and Glentoran midfielder announces retirement

A Northern Ireland U21 international, Knowles earned a dream move to England with Blackburn Rovers from Lisburn Distillery in 2009, spending three years at Ewood Park before returning home with Cliftonville. The 33-year-old developed a reputation for his set-piece expertise across spells at the Reds, Linfield, Glens, Ballymena United and Dungannon Swifts, who he departed at the end of last season. Knowles won an Irish League title during his time at Cliftonville alongside three League Cup crowns and a Co Antrim Shield, while he started for Dungannon in their historic Irish Cup final triumph over his former club in May 2025. He also featured in last season’s Irish Cup showpiece decider against Coleraine as a late substitute and his final career appearance came during Dungannon’s European play-off final defeat to Linfield at Windsor Park. Knowles made 32 Premiership appearances for Rodney McAree’s side last term, but the Co Tyrone club confirmed “a genuine, honest character who brought so much both on and off the pitch” was moving on to “explore other opportunities”. The midfielder has now confirmed his decision to step away from the pitch and reflected fondly on his football journey. "Today, I close a chapter that has been a huge part of my life,” Knowles posted on Instagram. “From leaving home to join Blackburn Rovers as a young boy, to experiencing winning a league title, cups, European nights and sharing it all with top teammates...I look back with incredible memories of highs, lows, set backs, celebrations and I wouldn’t change a single thing. "Thank you to all my family, clubs, managers, players and fans for always showing me the love. "Walking away isn’t easy, but sometimes the hardest decisions are the right ones. Thank you football.” Knowles was a consistent presence during his five seasons at Dungannon, making 27 or more Premiership appearances in each campaign, and was an important player across a successful period under McAree. After the Swifts announced Knowles’ exit in May, McAree said: "I would like to wish Knowlesy all the best for whatever is next is his footballing journey and thank him for five great seasons playing for our club. “Three of those seasons was spent playing under the current staff and he has played a pivotal role in helping us towards the success which we have achieved. “Knowelsy is one of the most honest, genuine and professional players I have had the pleasure to work with, added to that he has showed everyone associated with our club the talent and quality he possesses. “We wish you well Jimmy Knowles and look forward to seeing you back at Stangmore in the near future!” A host of Irish League players past and present sent their congratulations and well wishes to Knowles with Jim Ervin posting: “What a guy Jimmy Knowles. Super career for a super player and person. Good luck for what the future holds pal.” Former team-mate Andrew Mitchell added: “One of the best there is. What a fantastic career mate. Started together at Lisburn Youth, finished at the Swifts. It’s been a pleasure.”