DANNY Coles is to become a football agent after a knee injury forced him to call time on his lengthy playing career.

The former Forest Green captain was advised to bring the curtain down on a stellar career, which saw the 33-year-old rack-up 417 Football League games at Bristol City, Hull City, Bristol Rovers and Exeter City.

He went under the knife of renowned surgeon Jonathan Webb –the former England and Bath rugby full-back - at The Nuffield in Clifton Village, last month.

He now hopes his new off-the-pitch role will keep him in the sporting spotlight for years to come.

Coles said: “I have been offered the opportunity to work for sports management company Volenti, who mentor players and look after their needs.

“I am dead chuffed with the career I’ve had, but quickly decided I didn’t want to go into coaching.

“The chance to work in football agency is something that really appeals to me. I’ve had a few agents during my career and I hope to turn into a good agent.”

Bristolian Coles joined the Nailsworth outfit in August 2014 and was an ever-present in the heart of defence until the turn of the year.

He penned a contract extension until the summer of 2016, but lost his place after picking up a thigh strain in January.

During his time on the sidelines he was named player-coach in March following the departure of assistant manager Dave Kevan.

He was recalled for the second leg of last season’s play-off semi-final at his former employers Bristol Rovers - his last game for Forest Green.

Coles feels he leaves Forest Green in rude health.

He added: “I thoroughly enjoyed every minute I’ve been at the club.It’s a fantastic little club with big ambitions. To help the club up into the highest position its ever finished is something I’m proud of.

“It’s just a shame we couldn’t get promoted, but we just came up short unfortunately against Bristol Rovers.

“The team have started well and have a good squad and a great chance of going up if they can avoid a sticky patch.”