EIFION Williams, the former Hartlepool United striker, has retired from football. Now with Wrexham, the 32-year-old ended his five-year association with Pools last summer when he was handed a free transfer by Danny Wilson after making 239 appearances in a blue and white shirt.

Williams netted 56 goals for Pools, putting him 14th in the club's all-time list and his retirement comes a year and a day after he netted the North-East goal of the season, a stunning volley in Pools' 3-0 win at Darlington last season.

Signed by Chris Turner for a bargain £30,000 in March 2002, Williams was top scorer with 16 goals during Pools' promotion season of 2002/3.

His finest moment came when he put Pools level at 1-1 with Sheffield Wednesday in the League One play-off final in 2005.

Since moving to Wrexham, Williams' family have remained in Hartlepool and the former Wales B cap made just 15 appearances after being plagued by hamstring trouble.

"I have picked up one or two injuries this season and things haven't quite gone to plan," he admitted.

"It is though, one of those decisions where I have put the family first and the travelling has not helped.

"I have had a chat with (manager) Brian Little and we agreed it was best that we go our separate ways.

"I'm 33 this year and it just didn't feel right sitting here, picking up my money and not contributing.

"My family said they liked Hartlepool, having lived there for five years, so it is one of those decisions, where the kids are happy in school and its right for them."

He added: "I won't be returning to League football, I'm looking to get a job outside the game and by being back in the North-East I feel I know more people there and have a better chance of finding work.''