Gareth Ainsworth has paid tribute to Gary Doherty after the defender announced his retirement from football.

‘The Doc’, as he’s affectionately known around the club, failed to overcome a knee injury suffered in the pre-season win against Barnet.

The 34-year-old has been at Wanderers since 2012 and Ainsworth believes the rest of the team will miss Doherty’s presence.

He said: "Gary is a special guy who's had a fantastic career so I'm gutted for him that he's had to retire.

“I know it was a tough decision but he has to do what's right for him and I know I can speak for all of the lads when I say it's been a privilege to have him in the squad.”

"He's a model professional who's had a great influence even when he's been out of the team, and we'll miss having him about the place."