FORMER LIONS AND Wales number eight Andy Powell has revealed that depression, rather than a physical complaint, was behind his decision to retire.

Merthyr RFC announced the 35-year-old’s retirement from the game last week, citing an ongoing knee injury as the reason for hanging up his boots.

However, the 23-cap Welsh international last night told Sky Sports:

“The last year has been difficult. I’ve been suffering a bit with depression. I gave a statement the other day saying it was my knee, but it wasn’t.”

Powell admits the decision to open up about his mental health was not easy to take, but feels a weight has been lifted by doing so.

“I’ve been thinking in the back of my mind for a long time, ‘am I going to do it now?’ It was tough but I’ve made the decision and it’s a lot of weight off my shoulders, which I feel a lot better for.

“I’ve been dealing with it for around 18 months. It’s been tough, family problems and knowing when to call time on your career. It’s done now and it does feel a lot better.”

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