RETIRING NESS HAS ‘LIVED HIS DREAM’

Jamie Ness said he had lived his “dream” of playing football as he announced his retirement after 14 years in the game.

The midfielder, most recently with Forfar Athletic, was troubled by injuries in the latter stage of his career, calling it quits at the age of just 31.

Ness made eight appearances for the Loons in League Two before a cruciate problem in December put a halt to his season.

Posting on social media, Ness said he has been on a “hell of a rollercoaster” throughout his career but cherished every moment.

“After 14 years it’s time to hang up the boots,” he wrote on Instagram.

“I have made a lifetime of memories that will stay with me forever. It’s a hell of a rollercoaster being a professional footballer and I’m grateful for every single minute of it.

“I’ve been lucky enough to have worked with some fantastic people and to have played for some fantastic clubs.

“Thank you to my team-mates, managers, coaches, fans and everyone who has supported me on this journey.

“Most of all thank you to my family for helping me achieve everything I did, without them it wouldn’t have been possible.

“I have lived my dream and I’m now ready for the next chapter.”

Prior to joining up with Gary Irvine at the Angus side, he had a season with Dundee but struggled to make a breakthrough, again due to injury and Covid restrictions.

He previously told Courier Sport that he had no regrets about joining the Dark Blues and spoke of his mental health troubles after leaving Dens Park.

Ness’s most famous moment came at the age of 19, when he netted a stunning strike for Rangers in an Old Firm Scottish Cup clash with Celtic.

The Irvine-born midfielder also had spells with Stoke City, Scunthorpe and Plymouth Argyle.