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Collingwood defender Jordan Roughead has retired from the AFL after 201 games, 63 of them with the Magpies after playing 138 for the Western Bulldogs.
Collingwood will explore ways to keep "great culture guy" Jordan Roughead involved at the club after he retired from the AFL because of a gruelling run with injury.
The 31-year-old, who announced his decision on Friday, bows out after 201 games.
He played 63 of them with the Magpies after 138 for the Western Bulldogs, including a key role in the drought-breaking 2016 premiership.
Roughead made just one appearance this season after battling shoulder problems, playing against the Brisbane Lions in round five before needing finger surgery.
"Coming into this season I knew that it was likely to be my last," Roughead said in a club statement.
"I've had an on-going shoulder issue for the last few years and knew at some point I would have to make a decision.
"The last month or so I have spent some time thinking about when I would make the call.
"This is not a decision I am making because I want to but a decision I am making for my long-term health and my family as well."
Roughead will be forever remembered for playing a crucial role in the Bulldogs' first premiership in 62 years, taking on ruck duties during their golden run through the 2016 campaign.
The versatile tall moved from the Whitten Oval to Collingwood during the 2018 trade period and had a huge impact on the club.
He and wife Bridget watched the early stages of Collingwood's training session on Friday ahead of their crunch clash with traditional rivals Carlton.
"Jordan's such a great culture guy," Magpies coach Craig McRae said.
"He's amazing around the place and builds great relationships.
"We're going to keep him close at hand for multiple roles and put him into different areas to see what he enjoys, and also for life after footy to see what that is for him."
McRae said the finger and shoulder injuries meant there was no chance of a farewell match for Roughead.
His retirement opens up a second list spot for the Magpies ahead of next week's mid-season rookie draft.
Roughead, not the club, made the call around the timing of his decision.
"That's the character of the guy he is," McRae said.
"He noticed there was an opportunity for us if he did step away at this time and we could potentially have a pick in the mid-season draft."
Outside of football, Roughead is a member of the AFL Players for Climate action and has been speaking out about governments needing to do more to cut emissions.
