KIDDERMINSTER Harriers defender Jimmy O'Connor has retired after a long career spent mostly in the Football League.

O’Connor, 35, will continue as the Aggborough club’s senior academy coach following his decision to quit playing.

He enjoyed more than 500 senior appearances, including in the Championship and League One, after starting his career at Aston Villa.

Birmingham-born O'Connor played for the likes of Bournemouth, Doncaster Rovers, Derby County and Walsall as well as Port Vale and Bristol City on loan.

He arrived at Harriers in 2017 and was an integral part of the team who reached the National League North play-offs and FA Cup first round that season.

But injuries restricted O'Connor to just 48 Harriers appearances.

O'Connor said: “It’s always daunting as a player, going into another role, but I have thrown myself into it.

“I’ve tried to take everything I can from it and I’ve enjoyed it.

“I’ve been lucky that I’ve had a lot more years than a lot of players who’ve had to finish early.

“I’ve had some fantastic times at some really good clubs. I’ve made some really good friends and memories and I’d like to think I’d be welcomed back by the majority of them!"