Former Celtic star Darren O’Dea to hang up his boots

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Former Celtic centre-back Darren O’Dea has announced his retirement from football.

The Irishman has, unfortunately, ended his playing days after a 13-year strong career that also seen him play for the likes of Ipswich Town, Reading, and Dundee.

O’Dea sadly bows out having just suffered relegation from the Premiership. His Dundee side had their fate confirmed last weekend as they lost 1-0 to Hamilton at home.

O’Dea had been at the Dee for three years. He’s served them well during his time at the club, but won’t take part in their Championship campaign next season.

The announcement from O’Dea came from his official Twitter profile. He had the following to say about Celtic in particular:

“I’ve decided to retire from full-time football at the end of the season. I look back on my career with such price. Form growing up at Home Farm in Dublin to fulfilling a dream to play and win leagues and cups at Celtic.

“One special person I want to mention is Tommy Burns. The man signed me at Celtic and started the whole dream off. He might have left us in body, but he never left us in spirit. I thought about him every day as a player and you can guarantee he’ll be on my mind every day as a coach.

“Seme thought I was good and others maybe rubbish. But I’m pretty sure every supporter that watched me would say I gave 100% every time I played.”

All eyes on coaching now for O’Dea

O’Dea confirmed on his Twitter that his next job will be in coaching as he looks to the next stage of his professional career. It’s a shame that he’s retired at just 32, but he can be proud of his footballing career.

The former Hoops man always gave it his all at Parkhead. He managed 65 appearances in Glasgow during his time at Celtic. O’Dea famously notched the first goal in the 2-0 League Cup win over Rangers at Hampden back in 2009.

He ultimately left Parkhead in the summer of 2012 after his contract came to an end. He had already been on several loan spells, having dropped out of the team under Tony Mowbray and then failing to convince Neil Lennon to put him back in.

He’s certainly had his dangerous challenges over the years. But he’s always been fully committed to the cause he played for. Whether that be at Celtic, Reading, or Dundee, it didn’t matter. O’Dea was a solid professional at the back.

Hopefully, he goes on to have a successful career in coaching. And he’ll no doubt be back at Parkhead at some stage in the future.