PHIL JAGIELKA has announced his retirement from football.
The former Premier League and England star confirmed his decision on social media.
Jagielka, 41, posted on Instagram a collage of pictures of himself at all the clubs he played for.
He also shared an emotional message as he bid farewell to football after 23 years.
He wrote: “All good things come to an end and after just over 800 appearances my playing career is done.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I would get to play football at the highest level for some amazing clubs as well as my country.
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“It’s been an absolute honour to step onto the grass for every match and I have so many people to thank for that.
“Firstly I would like to thank every player, manager, coach, member of staff and fan who has played their part in my long football journey.
“I’ll be forever grateful for your support.
“Most importantly though I would like to thank my family and close friends who have stood by me throughout my career and shared in what has been something I’ll never forget.
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“Jags x.”
During his career, the defender played for the likes of Sheffield United, Everton Derby County and Stoke City.
Everton paid tribute to their former player and sent him congratulations on his career.
The club wrote: “Enjoy retirement Phil Jagielka, Congratulations on a fantastic career.”
Jagielka added to his farewell message in an interview.
He told Sky Sports: “As you can tell by the timing, I’ve tried to put myself out there for a little bit longer to see if anyone fancied giving me an opportunity to extend it, but they didn’t and I understand that.
“I’m super proud of myself to play at 40.
“If you’d have sat me down as a 15 or 16-year-old kid after being told I wasn’t good enough and then fast forward telling me I’d scored at 40, played at 40 and had the career I’ve had then I don’t think I can have too many complaints.”
Jagielka also earned 40 caps for England, scoring three goals.
He made his debut for England in 2008 during an international friendly 3-0 win against Trinidad and Tobago.
During his time at Sheffield United he was made to train once a week as a goalkeeper by manager Neil Warnock.
He famously kept a clean sheet against Arsenal in 2006 having replaced the injured Paddy Kenny with 34 minutes left to play.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
