Fulham's club captain Chris Coleman tonight admitted defeat in his gruelling 21-month battle against injury and announced his retirement.
The 32-year-old, who broke his right leg in a January 2001 car crash, returned to reserve football but today began a new coaching role with the Cottagers.
The former Swansea, Crystal Palace and Blackburn centre-back, also a highly-regarded Welsh international, made 161 appearances for Fulham after his December 1997 move from Ewood Park.
Coleman underwent extensive and physiotherapy - but the lack of movement in his ankle and constant pain in his knee forced doctors to advise him he could not continue as a player.
Fulham boss Jean Tigana said: "It was too difficult for Chris to play again - and I've explained to him that my door is open if he wants to work with me.
"He can start with the Under-15s and Under-17s and with me. He's a good man and has the possibility to manage at a high level, so it's a good opportunity for him and for Fulham.
"I knew he wouldn't be able to play again, but I prefer that he made the decision.
"He's started working with me today, because my physical trainer and assistant work with the first team and the young players.
"Chris has the human possibility to manage at a high level, because he is a leader. Now he has to work on it."