Motherwell defender Stephen Craigan has announced he will retire at the end of the season. The 35-year-old centre-back has opted to bring the curtain down on an 18-year career after rejecting the offer of a new contract at Fir Park.

Craigan, who played 378 games for the Steelmen and represented Northern Ireland 54 times, now intends to pursue a career in the media and will bid farewell to the Fir Park faithful after Sunday’s game at home to Dundee United. Motherwell have already clinched third place in the SPL and look set to represent Scotland along with champions Celtic in next season's UEFA Champions League.

 “When I joined the club in 1994 I had no idea that I would spend the majority of my adult life and footballing career at Fir Park,” said Craigan. “My aim was to play football professionally and today I can say I achieved my goal and it’s been a wonderfully satisfying journey.

“I take a lot of pride that I’ve represented the club 378 times and in wearing the claret and amber colours. It was a privilege to follow in the footsteps of some great players who’ve played not just at Fir Park over the years but at centre half.

“I want to thank all the players that I’ve played with throughout my career, past and present. At times I’m sure I was hard work but it was all for a good cause, winning.

“I’ve learned a great deal from all the managers I’ve worked under and I hope I set a good example for them with my work ethic.”