Car crash forces Coleman to quit

Chris Coleman, the club captain of Fulham, has admitted defeat in his 21-month battle against injury and announced his retirement.

The 32-year-old, who broke his right leg in a car crash last January, returned to reserve-team club football but yesterday began a new coaching role with the London side.

The former Swansea, Crystal Palace, Blackburn and Wales centre-back played 161 times for Fulham after moving from Ewood Park in December 1997. He underwent extensive and physiotherapy, but the lack of movement in his ankle and constant pain in his knee forced doctors to advise him he could not continue playing.

The Fulham manager, Jean Tigana, said: "I explained to him that my door is open if he wanted to work with me. He can start with the Under-15s and Under-17s and with me. He's a good man and has the possibility to manage at a high level.

"I knew he wouldn't be able to play again, but I prefer that he made the decision."

Coleman will work alongside Tigana's physical trainer Roger Propos and assistant manager, Christian Damiano, coaching the first team and Steve Kean's academy side. He will take his Uefa coaching badges next summer.

"It really is fantastic that I've been given the opportunity to stay," he said. "My coaching role is challenging and extensive, so I look forward to working with Jean and the players to ensure we build on the club's success so far."

The Fulham chief executive Bruce Langham added: "We're currently discussing the possibility of a benefit match in his honour some time next year. There is no greater ambassador for this club. We're sure Chris will embrace his new role with the passion he always displayed for us on the pitch."