MICHAEL Duff admits he feared he would have to retire six years ago.

But the Burnley veteran refused to quit and is again dining at England’s top table after defying the doctors.

Duff, 36, is relishing life back in the Premier League and has now successfully completed his coaching badges by attaining the UEFA Pro Licence, the top grade.

It has been a long slog for Northern Ireland defender Duff, who has spent 10 years at Turf Moor and is the only surviving member of the squad that last appeared in the top flight in 2009.

Yet he only thought of coaching after sustaining a combination of serious knee and hamstring injuries in the 2007/08 season in a match against Crystal Palace, which kept him sidelined for almost a year.

“It was something that came about because of my injury, “ he says. “At the time I was told it was a career-ending injury so it was a bit of a panic of what do I do. It was an eye opener.

“Looking back now it was probably the best thing that ever happened to me because I’ve managed to get it done while I’m still playing.”

Duff is doubt for today’s home game against Liverpool but today marks the anniversary of his first Premier League start - on Boxing Day in 2009.

He said “When you get to 30 you can become a bit complacent. I came so close to losing it, that I appreciate it that little bit more. That is maybe why I’m still so hungry now.”

Despite living in Manchester, Duff returned home to Belfast to takes his badges under the guidance of the Irish Football Association and its coach education manager Nigel Best.

Best said: “Having watched Michael come through his UEFA awards with the Irish FA, I strongly believe he will become a top coach in the future.”