HULL FC's Chris Tuson has been forced to retire from the game with immediate effect at the age of just 26 due to a recurrence of a troublesome back injury.
The second-rower has been plagued with injury concerns since joining the Black and Whites from Wigan Warriors in the off-season, suffering a spinal injury during pre-season training.
FC delayed his debut until the March fixture with Bradford, but Tuson took to the field just ten more times during the Super League campaign.
His final appearance in a Black and Whites shirt came in the recent home fixture against Warrington Wolves, and he suffered a recurrence of the back injury in the 24-18 defeat.
Following three weeks of tests and specialist consultation, Tuson has been forced to retire to avoid causing any more significant damage.
"I am extremely disappointed to have to finish my playing career in this way, but my health and well-being has to come first," he said.
"I have received first class support from the medical staff here, the specialists, and of course my family. It was a very difficult decision to make, but it is the right one."
Tuson is expected to take up the Assistant Coach role at the club's under-19s setup and become the first team's Player Welfare Officer after impressing the coaching staff with his knowledge and application.
