ACCRINGTON Stanley defender Colin Murdock could be set to quit football in the summer - to take up a job as a solicitor.

The 33-year-old central defender, with 34 caps for Northern Ireland, has returned to the Stanley starting line-up with impressive performances in each of the last two games but has started only 18 matches this season.

The former Manchester United junior had spoken about playing on for the next two or three seasons when he joined Stanley in the summer on a one-year deal, with an undisclosed number of appearances set to trigger a further year on his contract.

But boss John Coleman has admitted that Murdock has found it difficult to play two games a week and the ex-Preston and Hibernian defender lost his place following the arrival of fellow centre back Kieran Charnock.

And that could now mean Murdock decides to pursue a career path developed during his days at Old Trafford, when he flew back to Belfast at weekends to complete a law degree.

“This season has been a bit mixed really,” he said.

“We had a spell in the season where we hardly picked up any points in a 23-game spell, so it’s hard to enjoy it in those circumstances.

“But it’s been nice to play in the last two games. I still enjoy playing.

“I don’t feel as disappointed when I don’t play, but you still want to do as well as you can when you get the opportunity.

“I think I’ve done reasonably well and I’m just pleased to be part of a confident team at the moment.

“We’re safe now, so we’re just glad to have maintained our League Two status for next season.

“I’m not too sure what I’m doing next season to be honest. I’m quite philosophical.

“If I got another league club I would consider it but if I didn’t there’s every chance I’d move on to other pastures. I’ll start my career as a solicitor.

“I’ve finished my degree and my post-grad, so I’ve got a job offer with a commercial firm in Manchester, specialising in sports law.

“Playing on would depend on what comes up and how it fits in.

"It depends on the offer ultimately, so I’ll keep all my options open.

“I think it’s quite unlikely I’ll stay at Accrington, but never say never I suppose.”