Walsall defender James Chambers retires
Walsall boss Dean Smith was today stepping up efforts to bring in a new centre-back after James Chambers confirmed his retirement from the game.
Chambers, who began his career at Albion, has chosen to hand up his boots at the age of 34 in order to pursue business interests outside of football.
He leaves the Saddlers having made 102 appearances in three years and Smith needing a replacement for the player he rated his best defender last season.
At present, Paul Downing and James O'Connor are the only senior centre-halves on the club's books with just Matt Preston and Kyle Rowley behind them.
Chambers admits bringing down the curtain on a career which spanned 16 years and more than 400 games was no easy decision.
He said: "It's something I have thought long and hard about. I've taken advice from various people, as well as family and friends.
"I have decided that the time is right for me to have a change of direction."
Chambers, who together with brother Adam was part of the first Albion squad to win promotion to the Premier League in 2002, will now concentrate efforts on interests, including his company My Farewell.
He said: "I simply couldn't do both. It wouldn't have been fair on the club or myself for me to remain here and not give it my full attention.
"I have been fortunate to have enjoyed a long career in the game where I have played alongside and against some fantastic players and been involved in some big games.
"I've got some great memories to look back upon and leave Walsall having had a fantastic time over the past three years.
"When you move on from something you've been doing for a long time, it's only natural that there will be a tear in my eye, but I am looking forward to what the future holds in store.
"One of things I have most enjoyed over the years is the interaction with the fans and I must say that the Walsall supporters in particular have been first-class.
"I thank everyone who has supported me over the years, it really does mean a lot. I would like to think that I will be remembered as hard-working, energetic and a team player."
