Matlock skipper Yates announces retirement

Yates, 32 next month, has made more than 500 appearances for the club since making his debut in 2009.

He said: “Having recently had a second child and a change of job which is quite demanding, football has had to take a back seat.

“Being a semi pro footballer, I’m away from the house on a Tuesday, Thursday and a Saturday.

“I love Matlock Town Football Club, I love playing football, but I’m the type of person who needs to give everything one hundred per cent, there’s no half measures with me, it’s total commitment and I don’t feel I could carry on doing that.”

The news came out of the blue for Gladiators boss Paul Phillips, who paid tribute to the defender.

Phillips said: “I was quite shocked, having known and played against him and now managed him I knew he was a great player, but I didn’t realise just how good he was.

“He was one of our best players last season. In his time at the club he’s been through a hell of a lot, both good and bad, he’ll be a massive loss.”