Craig Bolton, one of the Swans most highly respected players, has been forced to retire due to a serious ankle injury.

Bolton told this team-mates earlier today, and will announce his retirement officially at a media conference at midday.

Bolton, co-captain from 2008 to the end of 2010, a dual All Australian defender and premiership player, was running laps earlier this week when he rolled his ankle.

Scans revealed he had torn a tendon and the injury will require major surgery.

“I was shattered when I heard how bad the injury is, and that it will end my career,’’ Bolton said.

“I have spent the past nine months recovering from my Achilles injury and it was going well. I was pretty close to resuming full training and confident I could make a real contribution this year.

“But I’ve had a fantastic career at the Swans. I was a fringe player at Brisbane and I came here and played in a premiership and then had the great honour of captaining the Club.

“I can’t thank everyone enough for the support they have given me during my time at the Swans.’’

More information on Bolton’s retirement will be available during the day at www.sydneyswans.com.au.