Bedford Town’s Craig Mackail-Smith has today announced his retirement from football at the age of 38 years old and after a career that took him to the highest stage of all.
The former Scotland international was one of the hottest names in the Football League when he joined Brighton and Hove Albion from Peterborough United, where he netted 80 goals in 185 appearances for the Posh.
The reported fee of £3.25m was testament to the talents of Mackail-Smith, who would soon make his Scotland debut in a friendly against none other than Brazil.
He would go on to score his solitary Scottish goal in a key European Championship qualifier against Lichtenstein, before joining Luton Town and then Wycombe Wanderers.
Read: Bedford Town land former Scottish international striker Craig Mackail-Smith
It was from the Wanderers where he would sign for Bedford Town in September 2020, where his experience and know-how was key in eventually helping the Eagles secure a league title and promotion to Southern League Premier Central.
Bedford Town were quick to praise the contribution of Mackail-Smith, both on and off the pitch.
“The board of the club, on behalf of the fans too, would like to thank Craig for his service not just to the Eagles but to the game as a whole.
“He has been a superb professional and a real role model to other players at The Eyrie, especially younger ones making their way through the development.
“His record across the game speaks for itself, scoring goals at non-league all the way through to the Championship. We wish Craig all the best for the future and know he will always be welcome at The Eyrie.”
While his appearances in recent times have been few and far between, Mackail-Smith’s career is one he will surely look back on with pride.
Mackail-Smith retires after today’s game at Hednesford Town, with one final opportunity to see one of the game’s brightest talents. Tickets are still available to purchase here.
