Former Ipswich Town captain David Norris scored a hat-trick in his final game of his career as he retires from football. 

The 43-year-old announced he was hanging up his boots earlier this month to bring an end to a professional career that has spanned over a quarter of a century. 

 

 

He finished his career in style as he scored a treble for Lancaster City but was on the losing side as they were beaten 4-3 at FC United of Manchester in their final game of the 2023/24 season. 

Norris has been at the seventh-tier side since December 2018, making over 100 appearances for the Dolly Blues during his spell at the Northern Premier outfit. 

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Incredibly, he has had four knee operations in his career and initially retired in 2022 on his surgeon's advice, but then continued to play on until now. 

He started his career at his local club Stamford before making his way up the leagues to have spells at Boston United, Bolton Wanderers, Hull City and Plymouth Argyle. 

East Anglian Daily Times: David Norris pictured when he signed for Ipswich in January 2008.David Norris pictured when he signed for Ipswich in January 2008. (Image: Ross Halls)

His performances in Devon caught the eye of then Town manager Jim Magilton, who signed Norris for £2 million in January 2008 and he became a key player in the side.

Norris spent three years at Portman Road, where he made 118 appearances and scored 17 goals. He was also named club captain by Roy Keane in the 2010/11 season. 

The midfielder departed the club in the summer of 2011 to join Portsmouth on a free transfer, before spells at Leeds United, Peterborough, Yeovil Town and Blackpool.

He then dropped out of the Football League in 2016 to enjoy stints with non-league sides Leatherhead, Salford City, Shaw Lane and Boston.

Norris ends his 27-year playing career having played more than 500 professional games.