FORMER Challenge Cup winning Warrington Wolves winger Chris Riley has called time on his career.

The 30-year-old ex-England Academy and Knights flyer, who has also featured in the professional game at full back, has been without a club for almost a year.

“The time has come to finally announce my retirement from the sport of rugby league,” he said this morning in a statement.

Warrington Guardian:

Early days with The Wire first team, playing in a friendly against Barrow in January, 2005. Picture: Mike Boden

“I’ve been inactive and without a club for just over 12 months and I no longer have the same passion and desire as I did for the last 13 years or so playing and feel this is the right time to hang up the boots.”

He will look back fondly on his playing days, particularly at his hometown club for whom he featured in the Challenge Cup successes of 2009, 2010 and 2012 as well as the League Leaders’ Shield triumph of 2011.

Warrington Guardian:

Enjoying the moment as Wire are presented with the Challenge Cup at Wembley in 2009. Picture: Mike Boden

Warrington Guardian:

Celebrating with head coach Tony Smith at the Town Hall homecoming after the Challenge Cup Final success of 2010. Picture: Mike Boden

Warrington Guardian:

Celebrating his Wembley try en route to victory over Leeds Rhinos in the 2012 Challenge Cup Final. Picture: Dave Gillespie

“I’m so grateful to have been given the opportunity to fulfil my dream of becoming a rugby league player and also getting the chance to do this for a large part of my career with my hometown club Warrington Wolves,” said the former Woolston Rovers junior, who was educated at Penketh High School.

“I could never imagine when I debuted at the age of 17 that in my time there I would go on and be involved in winning the Challenge Cup – the club’s first trophy in 35 years and to go on and win further trophies was more than I could ever have asked for.”

Warrington Guardian:

Riley crossed for 120 tries in 180 Wire appearances between 2005 and 2014 while also spending time out on loan and playing for partner clubs on dual registration.

Warrington Guardian:

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the clubs that gave me the opportunity to represent them along the way – London, Wakefield, Rochdale. I enjoyed every minute of each one,” he said.

“I’d like to thank all the staff who have invested their time in me and getting the best from me on the field.

“I’d like to thank my peers in making wonderful memories and building some strong friendships.

“Thank you to all the fans for their loyal support across the years.

“Big thanks to my family and friends for the love and guidance. To my wife and children for their unconditional love and support through all the ups and downs.”

He concluded: “I’m now looking forward to becoming a fan again and to enjoy watching this great game.”

READ > Final diary entry from inside the Warrington Wolves camp

Warrington Guardian:

Representing England against Cumbria in 2010. Picture: Mike Boden

Warrington Guardian:

Lining up for England Knights with Wire teammates Mike Cooper and Stef Ratchford in 2012. Picture: Mike Boden