Ex-Sunderland striker James Vaughan reveals why he is retiring

Reflecting on the ‘tough decision’, Vaughan says now felt the right time to hang up his boots following a lengthy career which has seen him play for several clubs including Everton, Norwich City, Huddersfield Town, Bury, Sunderland Wigan and Tranmere Rovers.

During a spell on Wearside three years ago, Vaughan struggled for both goals and form.

The striker struggled for form after joining the club from Bury in the summer, netting just twice in 27 appearances, he would then join Wigan Athletic.

And the forward has now confirmed his retirement while also confirming he is doing a sporting directorship degree as he looks to the next stage of his career.

"It was a tough decision but I've had a really good career. I just felt the time was right now to hang up the boots," the former striker told Sky Sports News.

"I always tried my hardest and managed to get a few goals this season but your mind and body tells you when it's time to call it a day and I feel like I'm at the end of it now. I'm looking forward to the future.

"I love football, it's all I know and I want to be a part of it.

"I've enrolled on a sporting directorship degree and I'm really enjoying that. In the long-term, that is something I'll look that. I'm really keen on mentoring some of the younger generation and help them."

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