Friday, December 09, 2022

From The Archives - Peacock Forced To Retire

BN looks back to December 9th 2000 and the sad news that former Hereford United play Darren Peacock had been forced to retire because of injury.

Blackburn Rovers defender Darren Peacock has retired from football whilst on-loan at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Peacock was the record sale for Hereford United when first division Queens Park Rangers bought him in 1990. In the Worthington Cup match at Fulham, which Wolves lost 3-2, Peacock suffered a neck injury and has quit as the medical risk to continue is too high. He was knocked unconcious in the challenge when the injury occured.

Peacock joined Hereford in March 1989 when Newport County went bust, and had a successful spell at Edgar Street before moving for £440,000 to QPR at Christmas 1990. He moved on from Loftus Road to Kevin Keegan's Newcastle for £2,700,000. He played for Blackburn, and on-loan at West Ham and Wolves before retiring. You can watch some of his Hereford United goals below.




"It is very disappointing to say the very least. It hasn't really sunk in yet and is certainly not how I planned to end my playing career," said Darren. "But the medical people left me in no doubt, saying it would be far too risky for me to consider playing again."

Blackburn boss Graeme Souness said: "We all feel for Darren, a great professional who has given sterling service during his career. On behalf of the players and management staff I would like to wish him every success in the future."

Meanwhile, John Williams, the Blackburn chief executive, added: "It is always sad when a footballer has to retire through injury and Darren's situation is very unfortunate. However, the long term health and well-being of any player must prevail at all times. I feel sure that all supporters will join with me and everyone at Ewood Park in offering Darren sincere best wishes."