Warrington’s plans for the 2014 season have been hit by a massive blow with the news that veteran stand-off Lee Briers has announced his retirement with immediate effect.
The 35-year-old joined the Wolves in 1998 after coming through the ranks at St Helens and has gone on to become a legend in Cheshire.
During his early years at the club, Briers had a number of chances to leave for bigger teams but regularly turned down their advances and his loyalty has been rewarded over the last few seasons, with Challenge Cup victories in both 2009 and 2010.
Warrington have continued to go from strength to strength since Tony Smith took over in 2009, making it to the Super League Grand Final in the last two seasons with the former Wales international being instrumental in both journeys to Old Trafford.
However, following medical advice the stand-off has been forced to call time on his career due to a neck problem.
He will now move into a backroom role at the club, leaving boss Smith with a huge hole in his side going into the 2014 campaign.
“I feel privileged to have played for so long,” Briers said. “Unfortunately it has come to an end but it was going to one day and the doctor took that out of my hands.
“I’m sad but I’ve got good things to look forward to now with the coaching; my next chapter.
“It is something I have always wanted to focus on and now I have the opportunity to do that. I would have liked an extra year playing but I now hope to help find the next superstars of Warrington
Wolves.”
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