Former Accrington Stanley defender Mike Liddle has announced his retirement from football, informing his current club Blyth Spartans of his desire.
The 34-year-old is a product of the Sunderland academy having progressed through the ranks making his one and only appearance for the club against Barrow in the FA Cup in January 2010. He enjoyed loan spells at Carlisle United, Leyton Orient, Gateshead and Accrington Stanley before joining the latter permanently in 2012.
The defender went on to make 89 appearances for the League Two club but found his time hampered by a “succession of niggling injuries” in his second and third seasons at the club. Ultimately, after only appearing 15 times in his final season he was released.
Following his release he had spells at Dunston, Blyth Spartans and Darlington before returning to Blyth Spartans in 2021. Liddle made 203 appearances for the National League North side across his two spells including their defeat in the 2019 play-offs to Altrincham on penalties. He now retires at the age of 34, according to the Blyth Spartans website.
Liddle was also included in the Irish Under-21 sides between 2008 and 2009 making five appearances for his country.
A Good Lower League Servant
Despite perhaps not reaching the heights some of his early Sunderland academy performances indicated Liddle was a solid lower-league and non-league player. Had it not been for injuries that had blighted his gametime throughout his career he may have been able to get some consistent momentum and rebuild.
However, he was willing to keep going, even when dropping down the leagues.
What’s Been Said?
Speaking to the official website of Blyth Spartans Liddle spoke about his decision;
“I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone at Blyth Spartans.
“When I first joined I was coming out of professional footy and wasn’t really enjoying it. I joined a team and club with some absolutely unbelievable people in it and we had an unreal few years where I enjoyed football more than I ever had before.
“After that, it was a little bit different on the pitch but I’ve honestly enjoyed every minute of it (barring the end of last season). I can’t say enough about the fans at this place, the support I’ve had and the banter I’ve shared with the Green Army has meant so much to me.
“It’s been a pleasure to play for the club, to meet people I can now call mates and it’s a club that will always hold a massive place in my heart. I look forward to getting back to Croft Park as a fan and wish everyone all the best for the future.
“Thanks for everything. Lids.”