ALM stalwart Topor-Stanley to retire

VETERAN Western United defender Nikolai Topor-Stanley has been described as a “legend of Australian football” after calling time on a storied A-League Men career.

The 38-year-old confirmed on Wednesday that he will hang up the boots at the end of this season.

The centre back won four caps for the Socceroos and has represented five ALM clubs – Sydney FC, Newcastle Jets, Perth Glory, Western Sydney Wanderers, and Western United.

“I’m immensely proud and grateful for the life football has given me,” Topor-Stanley said.

“I’ve come to terms with retirement as it’s something that I’ve been contemplating for a few months now, so I’m at peace with my decision.”

Topor-Stanley was part of the Wanderers side that won the Asian Champions League in 2014 and lifted last year’s grand final with United.

The defender, who also had a stint in the UAE, is second in the ALM’s all-time appearance standings with 379 games.

“Nikolai will go down as a legend of Australian football and it is a bittersweet moment to see him step away from the game,” said Western general manager of football Mal Impiombato.

“His longevity and consistent success is something to be celebrated, and I’m sure all of his former clubs, old teammates and rivals will recognise the special contribution that he has made to our game.”

– BY GEORGE CLARKE/ AAP 

(sapns2)