FORMER Southend United defender Leo Roget has been forced to end his career as a professional boxer.

The 37-year-old, who made 159 appearances as a defender for the Shrimpers, fought just one professional bout, losing to Mitch Mitchell last December.

But a neck injury restricted his performance that night and has now led to him having to retire.

“I’m really disappointed,” said Roget.

“I went for a scan after my fight and was told my neck injury, which I had suffered in the build up, was making me lose 40 to 50 per cent of muscle strength down the right-hand side of my body.

“I was told I couldn’t box anymore, which was hard to take.

“However, I’ve had a few drinks since then and I’m starting to feel a little bit better about it all now.”

Roget will instead concentrate on continuing his work as a personal trainer.

And he is now also working at the Ripped Gym in Basildon.