WORCESTER City captain Paul Downing has opted to retire from football following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.
The centre-back joined Worcester ahead of the club’s return to the Southern League Premier Central in June 2025.
He scored two goals in 32 appearances for City last season and has now called time on his playing career.
The 34-year-old made more than 250 appearances in the Football League for the likes of Walsall, Milton Keynes Dons, Blackburn Rovers and Portsmouth.
He also spent time on loan at Hereford United, Barnet, Doncaster Rovers and Rochdale.
Downing returned to Hereford in non-league in 2023/24 and then spent a season at Kidderminster Harriers in the National League North.
Worcester had the second best defence in the Southern League Premier Central last season as City finished seven points outside of the play-off places.
A club statement said: “Paul is a model professional, his experience across the backline last season was a major factor in us keeping the second best defensive record with 44 conceded.
“Whilst we are sad to see him hang up his boots, we are also extremely delighted that he is taking his next step forward in his coaching career and within the professional game.
“Everyone at the football club wishes Paul and family the very best for the future ahead.”
The club have also confirmed defender Shay Palmer and midfielder Felix Miles have both left the club.
Palmer made 42 appearances for Worcester while Miles scored 22 goals in 66 games as both players helped City to promotion from Step Four.
And defender Josh Bailey has also departed Sixways to move higher up the pyramid after making 38 appearances for Worcester this season.
Bailey won three awards at the club’s end-of-season awards night following a stellar campaign as he won Worcester’s supporters’, players’ and young player of the year awards.
A club statement said: “As many would expect, Josh has had many suitors this summer from higher up the football pyramid which just shows the impact his performances last season had.
“We can only express our thanks to Josh for his time at the club and wish him all the very best with his next move.”
