Former Hartlepool United and Sunderland goalkeeper confirms retirement

Former Hartlepool United and Portsmouth goalkeeper Trevor Carson has confirmed his retirement just over a month after agreeing to join Scottish club Queen of the South. The eight-times capped Northern Ireland international started his professional career with Sunderland and earned senior experience during loan spells with the likes of Chesterfield, Lincoln City and Hull City. However, Carson left the Black Cats without making a senior appearance during the summer of 2012 - but returned to the North East when he joined Pools three years later following a spell with Cheltenham Town. Carson was part of the Pools side that reached the FA Cup third round in 2016 before suffering a 2-1 home defeat against a Derby County side containing the likes of former Sunderland and England striker Darren Bent and Austria international Andi Weimann. After making 63 appearances over a two-year stay at Victoria Park, Carson moved north of the border to join Motherwell and remained in Scottish football after spending time with Dundee United, St Mirren, Ross County and Dundee in recent seasons. After agreeing to join Queen of the South earlier this summer, Carson has now confirmed his retirement after picking up a knee injury during their preparations for the new League One season. A statement released on the Scottish club’s website on Sunday read: “It is with regret that we have to announce the departure of Trevor Carson. The 38-year-old goalkeeper who was Nicky Clark’s first signing has decided to retire due to a knee injury. After a tough pre-season the Northern Irish international can’t guarantee his fitness for the full campaign and has honourably informed the manager of his decision to step aside to give him time to source a replacement. “The Gaffer said “It is a massive blow to both Trevor and us that he has had to retire. He has had a great career and the experience he would have brought made him an unbelievable signing. I respect his honesty and appreciate him telling me now, it’s a blow but we need to move on.” “Everyone at the club wishes Trevor all the best for the future.” Your next Hartlepool United read: Exclusive: 'Rankles with me' - Danny Johnson makes Hartlepool United admission after sealing Spennymoor Town move