Victorious LDV Vans Trophy-winning captain Ian Marshall has announced that he will retire from football at the end of the season. The former Town striker was proud to skipper the Seasiders to victory at Cardiff yesterday.

Marshall said: "I wanted my career to end with a bang not a whimper, and I've made my mind up to hang up my boots in the summer.

"It's been a difficult decision, Steve McMahon offered me a new deal but after speaking to my wife the time has come for me to quit, hopefully I can enjoy my retirement.

"To captain this team in a cup final has been magnificent. I've played in the Premier League for many years and figured in Worthington Cup finals but this has been by far and away the proudest moment that I've experienced in my footballing life."

Marshall played for Town from 1993 to 1996 when he left to join Leicester City. Most will remember his partnership with Alex Mathie, often referred to as the M&Ms. Marshall made 91 starts for Town (plus five as sub) and scored 38 goals.

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