VETERAN Jets goalkeeper Glen Moss has abandoned plans to finish the A-League season, announcing his immediate retirement after an illustrious 250-game A-League career.
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The former New Zealand international announced earlier this year his plan to hang up the boots at the age of 37.
"It's a decision that's best for my family. We've already settled back in Sydney and we want to be together," Moss said in a statement.
"I've had plenty of time to reflect on a career that I'm extremely proud of, and I'm happy to finish on my terms.
"Hopefully the boys can kick on and crack the top six. I'll be at home cheering them on from the couch."
Moss joined the Jets in 2017-18 and made 46 appearances, after previous stints with New Zealand Knights, Wellington, Gold Coast and Melbourne Victory.
Just hours before Moss's announcement, the Jets revealed they had parted company with fringe striker Kaine Sheppard.
The Jets released a statement on Thursday to confirm Sheppard, who played in 28 games for Newcastle, would not be returning to Newcastle for the final four games of the season after the COVID-19 interruption, and would instead look to "pursue other opportunities".
His last appearance was in a scoreless draw against Western united on February 1, barely a week before new coach Carl Robinson assumed the reins.
Sidelined for four months earlier in the season with a foot injury, his opportunities were subsequently limited by Newcastle's mid-season recruitment of target men Roy O'Donovan and Bernie Ibini and he did not feature in Robinson's plans for next season.
In a statement, the Jets quoted Sheppard as saying: "I really enjoyed my time in Newcastle, and I'd like to wish the boys and the club all the best for the rest of the season and beyond."
The former Victorian Premier League striker told the Herald in April: "I believe I am good enough to play in this league and do really well for many years to come."
