WESTS Tigers forward Liam Fulton has been forced into a premature retirement.

Fulton told teammates at 11am today that ongoing concussion concerns meant he had played his final game of NRL.

FULTON TOLD TO PUT FAMILY BEFORE FOOTBALL

The hardworking back-rower returned today from an overseas holiday, where he made the difficult decision.

Fulton sustained concussion four times in six games this year.

He had another two years remaining on his current contract.

media_camera Liam Fulton leaves the field with concussion against the Rabbitohs.

In statement released by the club shortly after the news was confirmed, coach Mick Potter praised Fulton for the way he has conducted himself during the last few weeks.

“Liam is a key member of our team and will be sorely missed on the field,” he said.

“His lighthearted approached to life is refreshing to all of us at Wests Tigers and it’s great that he will remain a part of the Club.”

Shattered for Fults. The toughest I've played with and one of my best mates. So many memories together it's been a pleasure. Love ya mate! — robbie farah (@robbiefarah) July 10, 2014

Liam Fulton hold your head high. You are a champion on and off the field and a great family man #WelcomeToRetirement — Beau Ryan (@therealbeauryan) July 10, 2014

Sad to see my good mate Liam Fulton retire today from rugby league. Absolute champion on and off the field. Wish him nothing but the best! — Keith Galloway (@kgalloway85) July 10, 2014

OFFICIAL - Liam Fulton has today announced his retirement from the NRL, effective immediately. Details: http://t.co/uAiyGz9FiK — Wests Tigers (@Wests_Tigers) July 10, 2014

Tigers CEO Grant Mayer also commended the 29-year-old for making the decision.

“Liam has made a very brave decision, one that cannot have been easy for him to make,” said Mayer.

“Having spoken at length with Liam, his family and management I know this is the right decision for him and his future health.

“On behalf of Wests Tigers I’d like to thank Liam for his commitment to the Club and look forward to working with him closely into the future.”

The full story will appear in Friday’s The Daily Telegraph.

Originally published as Concussion forces Liam Fulton to retire