Tranmere stalwart goalkeeper Murphy retires at 44

Murphy made 124 league appearances for Tranmere in two spells [Getty Images]

Tranmere goalkeeper Joe Murphy has announced his retirement from football at the age of 44.

Murphy, who had also been part of Rovers' coaching staff since 2022, began his career with the club, making his debut in 1999.

He spent four years at Prenton Park before moving to West Brom, going on to play for the likes of Sunderland, Coventry and Scunthorpe before rejoining Rovers in 2020.

"I think it's time to step away and have some family time and think about my next chapter," Murphy told the club website.

"I've had a good stint, people average about an eight/nine-year career and I've had three times that.

"I made the decision a few months ago, but I didn't want to take the attention away from the team by announcing it before the final day, as we had too much to play for. It wasn't about me, it was about ensuring the club stayed in the football league."

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Murphy also represented the Republic of Ireland twice and spent time with Huddersfield, Shrewsbury and Bury, both on loan and permanently.

He also had temporary spells with Walsall and Chesterfield and made more than 700 appearances in total as a professional keeper.

"I'm just happy with how long I've lasted, I've made some good memories, made some good friends, played at the highest level for club and country, and played a lot of games.

"Now I have some time, I will be able to take a step back and look back at what I've achieved. It's been quite a journey."

Tranmere chairman Mark Palios lauded Murphy's impact on the club, calling him a legend.

"People talk about 'club legends', Joe is certainly one of them," said Palios.