Veteran striker Marcus Stewart retires

Exeter striker Marcus Stewart has confirmed he will retire from professional football after Saturday's npower League One clash with his former club Bristol Rovers at the Memorial Ground.The 38-year-old will bring the curtain down on an illustrious career which has seen him score 254 goals in 782 games. Career pinnacle: Stewart scored 21 goals for Ipswich back in the 2000/01 season, helping the club to a Premier League high finish of fifthStewart admits it is the right time to bow out, saying: 'There are six games to go and I'm not fighting for a playing contract next season so I'm better off giving someone else a chance, whether that's a young lad or someone whose contract is up.'I am proud of my career and I am going out not chasing anything, I'm not chasing another title or another goal.'After beginning his career with Rovers, Stewart also played for Huddersfield, Ipswich, Sunderland, Bristol City, Preston and Yeovil before heading to Exeter in July 2008. Sunderland boss Bruce sympathises with banned bad boy RooneyBruce exclusive: Why Mr Grumpy is desperate to find his smile again  Explore more:Places: Exeter, Bristol

Source: Daily_Mail