Dichio hangs up boots to coach at Toronto

Published on Wednesday 9 September 2009 22:56

FORMER QPR and Sunderland striker Danny Dichio has announced his retirement as a player. The 34-year-old's most recent club was Toronto FC, where Dichio scored 14 goals in 59 appearances over two-and-a-half Major League Soccer seasons.

The Londoner will continue in football, with Toronto FC director of soccer Mo Johnston appointing him an academy coach and team ambassador, working in the community for the club.

"I'm really looking forward to this new chapter in my career, and I'm happy I get to do it here at Toronto FC," Dichio said. "It's a great opportunity given to me by Mo and the front office and I'm excited to help this organisation in the years to come."

Dichio had been in and out of the Toronto starting XI throughout his time in MLS, plagued by a series of injuries, starting just six of the club's 24 games so far this season, with three goals from 19 appearances. Yet he became a folk hero with the club's fans, scoring Toronto FC's first goal in their MLS history in May 2007.

"Danny has not only been an integral part of Toronto FC, but also the city of Toronto from day one," Johnston said. "Having Danny on board in his new capacity will also assist us in scouting not only for upcoming MLS games, but with the young talent that is here in Ontario for our academy."

Dichio also had spells with Preston, Millwall, Derby, Barnet and West Brom, as well as Italian clubs Sampdoria and Lecce.