Former Carlisle United favourite Luke Joyce has announced he is to retire in the new year.
Perhaps fittingly his final game will be against Cumbrian opposition managed by a former team-mate who has twice tried to sign him.
Joye has remained loyal to Radcliffe, impressive leaders of the NPL Premier Division and he will line up for them against Danny Grainger’s Workington on January 6.
Bolton-born Joyce had two spells with Carlisle, clocking up 146 league appearances and has also played for Accrington Stanley (246) and Port Vale (114) while he had five games on loan with Barrow early in his career.
News was announced by the club who said: “We can sadly announce that our upcoming game against Workington at the Neuven Stadium on the 6th of January will be Luke Joyce’s last for the club, as he is set to retire from football to take up a full-time role at Premier League outfit Brentford, as their Lead North Scout.
“The 36-year-old has had a fantastic playing career which has spanned over 17 years, plying his trade for the likes of Wigan Athletic, Carlisle United, Accrington Stanley and Port Vale, racking up over 700 senior appearances.
“Luke joined the club under the management of Bobby Grant in the summer of 2022, immediately cementing his place in the heart of our midfield for seasons to come.
“Joycey has played over 70 times in a Radcliffe shirt, becoming an incredible servant for the Boro having rarely missed a fixture since his arrival. His positive performances on the field, matched with his likeable personality off it has seen him undoubtedly become a fans’ favourite over the last couple of campaigns, and he will be greatly missed.
“Please join us at the Neuven Stadium on January 6 to help send Luke off in the best way possible. He will be accompanied by his family on the pitch after the game, and we’d like you to stay and show your appreciation in what will be an emotional afternoon for the Joyce family, and everyone in the Radcliffe camp.”
Radcliffe were impressive 4-1 winners against Workington at Borough Park early in the season and have led the table since.
