Gold Coast defender Nick Malceski has announced his retirement from the AFL due to injury problems.

Malceski played 176 games for Sydney – including their 2012 grand final triumph – and 34 for the Suns after joining them last season.

The 32-year-old still had a year left on his contract but said his troublesome knee effectively made the decision for him.

“To be honest, I couldn’t go on,” Malceski said.

“When reflecting on my year and the direction of the footy club it became clear to me that the time was right to call it a day.

“I will be forever grateful to the Sydney and Gold Coast Football Clubs and I wish to thank both clubs, their players, fans, my family, friends and everyone who has shown me unwavering support throughout my playing career.”

However, Malceski will not be lost to the Suns, as he will take up a role as an assistant coach with their academy next year.

“When Nick joined our club from the Sydney Swans we knew we weren’t just bringing in a player,” Suns football operations manager Marcus Ashcroft said.

“We recruited a person with great football knowledge, leadership qualities and a passion to move into coaching when his football career came to an end.

“With that being the case we are really pleased to be able to offer Nick that opportunity with the Suns.”