CARLTON defender Liam Jones has today made the decision to announce his retirement from AFL football.

The Club has been in regular contact with Jones across the offseason period in a bid to provide appropriate support for the 30-year-old – who today informed the Club of his decision.

He departs the game having played 161 games across 12 seasons with the Blues (2015 – 2021) and Western Bulldogs (2010 – 2014).

Jones wished to express that he has made this decision for personal reasons and asked that his privacy be respected at this time.

“I wish to announce my retirement from AFL football effective immediately,” Jones said.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank all who have supported me throughout my journey, both personally and professionally. I love the game and I’ll miss my teammates”

“I hope that people respect my decision and privacy – neither myself or my management team will be making any further comment on the matter. ”

Carlton Head of Football Brad Lloyd expressed the Club’s understanding and thanks to Liam for the last seven years.

“We have been in constant dialogue with Liam in recent months and allowing him the time he needed to make an informed decision regarding his playing career,” Lloyd said.

“Liam confirmed with us today that he has made the decision to retire, and his wish for the specific reasons of that decision to be kept private – as a club, we will be respecting that.”

“We thank Liam for his seven years of service to the Carlton Football Club, he earned every part of the 161 games he played, which included a complete positional transformation in the middle of his career, that could have only been possible with supreme dedication and hard work.”

“We wish Liam all the best for the next phase of his life.”

The Club will now work closely with the AFL regarding options available to replace Jones’ spot on the list for the 2022 AFL season.