By David Williams
Wales’ second most capped footballer Loren Dykes has announced her retirement from playing.
Dykes – who brought her Women’s Super League career to an end last year – has been playing for Cardiff City Ladies in the English FA Women’s National league South.
But the 33-year-old – who won 105 caps – has opted to concentrate solely on coaching in her roles with both Bristol City and the Wales U15s.
“I have decided that now is the right time to announce my official retirement from football,” said Dykes.
“It has been in the pipeline for quite some time as I have slowly made the transition from player to coach over these past few months.
“I want to fully focus my energy on my development as a coach, with responsibilities at both club and youth national level as I work towards the completion of my UEFA A coaching licence.”
Dykes became Wales’ second football centurion after Jess Fishlock, when she won her 100th cap against the Czech Republic in 2019.
The Swansea-born player was a two-time finalist of the Women’s FA Cup in England and also played in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
“Playing for my country has been the greatest honour I could have ever wished for and has given me memories that I will cherish for life,” she added.
“I now look forward to helping to continue the growth of the game in Wales and help inspire future players in a coaching capacity.”
