Former Wanderers defender Joe Riley has been forced to retire due to a knee injury.

The 29-year-old came through the Whites' Academy and went on to make nine appearances for the first-team.

After leaving Wanderers in 2015, Riley had spells with Bury, Shrewsbury Town, Plymouth and Mansfield Town.

Riley wrote on Twitter: "Gutted I've got to retire at 29 but I've been able to live my dream for 10 years, more downs than ups but I've loved every single minute.

"I've managed to play for some great clubs and met some great people."

Riley made his Wanderers debut in a 5-0 win over Stoke City at the UniBol nearly a decade ago.

His career was sadly hampered by a series of injuries, which have ultimately cut his playing time short.

Wanderers skipper Antoni Sarcevic, who played with Riley at Shrewsbury and Plymouth, wrote: "One of the best I've shared a dressing room with! Devestated to see this news, lads like you don't come round often and it's been a pleasure, Riles."

Bolton told Riley in a tweet to “be proud of what you achieved”, adding: “All the best in all your future endeavours.”