Ryan: I’m gutted to call time

RYAN MASON has revealed the turmoil of his “sad and emotional” decision to retire.

The former Hull star has been forced to quit the game after he suffered a fractured skull in an accidental clash with Chelsea defender Gary Cahill last year.

“It’s been sad and emotional but I’ve had so many good-luck messages and positive feedback from people that it’s been nice at the same time,” said Mason last night.

“I’m looking forward to the next chapter now.

“The last 12 months have been a constant battle for me.

“I was confident that I could get back on the pitch. But a week or two ago I got some conclusive and strong news that it was all over.

“I had a week or two to get over it emotionally and that’s why the timing was right to get it out there so I could talk about it and move on.

“Hull have been fantastic. The doctor has been with me throughout.

“I have probably been to 50 different surgeons, had blood test, scans, almost everything, and he has been there every step of the way. The chairman has backed me, everyone at the club wanted to see me play again but sadly it wasn’t to be. I can’t speak highly enough of them.”