MIDFIELD hard man Stuart Massey, released by Oxford United last month following an horrific knee injury, has announced his retirement from the professional game.

The 33-year-old fans' favourite has been told that the injury is so serious that he cannot have the operation he needs on it this summer and then attempt to start playing again for fear of arthritis setting in.

But he still harbours hopes of having the cruciate ligaments operation later in the year and, should it prove successful, he may try to find a club at non-League level, possibly in the Conference, the season after next.

"I've basically decided that with the way the things are with my knee and with not being given a new contract by Oxford I'm going to pack up professional football," he declared.

"I've got to go back and see the specialist in six weeks' time but he's said I can't have the op yet because the knee needs more time to settle down.

"I'm still banking on having this operation some time and as for playing football again, I've not crossed it off completely. "But in my own mind I've decided that's the end of my professional career.

"The only level I'm interested in playing at is Div 1, wages wise, I wouldn't want to come back and go into Div 3 or something."

The enterprising Massey, formerly an electrician, is now starting up his own small kitchen and reproduction furniture business.

He should be entitled to an insurance pay-out after being forced to pack in the game following one of the game's worst injuries, which was caused by an accidental tackle from former England international Peter Beardsley during United's 3-1 win at Manchester City in March.

Massey says he has been promised a benefit game by Oxford United. He is now trying to get a likely date in writing.

MIKE Ford, given a free transfer by United last month after ten years at the Manor Ground, could be on his way back to his former club Cardiff City.

Sources in South Wales indicate that the 32-year-old defender is a target for the Division 3 club.

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