JAY BOTHROYD has called on Cardiff to retire Peter Whittingham’s No7 shirt following the tragic death of the 35-year-old.
The Bluebirds legend passed away on Thursday due to injuries sustained following an accident at a pub in Barry, South Wales, on March 7.
Jay Bothroyd has paid tribute to Cardiff legend Peter Whittingham
Whittingham suffered devastating head injuries after falling down a flight of stairs, with pregnant wife Amanda by his side when his life support machine was turned off after doctors said there was no hope.
The football world has been left in shock at the former England youth international’s death, with tributes pouring in for the popular footballer.
And his ex-Cardiff team-mate Bothroyd believes the Championship side should not use the No7 jersey again in honour of Whittingham.
He tweeted: “Whitts No 7 shirt should be retired. Special player, great person. R.I.P Brother.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the Whittingham family and all his loved ones.”
In a follow up tweet, he again expressed his desire for the jersey to be retired, while also attaching a poll asking fans whether they agree with him.
He said: “Peter Whittingham was a great player and graced @CardiffCityFC for many years I was lucky enough to share a dressing room with him for 3 great years.
“I have so many great memories with him on and off the field.
“Rest easy Whitts. I believe Whitts no.7 shirt should be retired.”
Over 1,600 supporters have so far agreed with Bothroyd, with fans also claiming the two-time Cardiff Player of the Year should have a stand named after him.
One commented: “I agree something should be done to remember him and have no doubt the club will do that. Would love to see the Family Stand named after him. He was a great role model for the kids and, by all accounts, was a family man so would make sense.“
Another said: “ Agreed! Also think we should name a stand after him and get you and the lads back for a charity match in his honour as he didn’t get his testimonial.”
A third added: “Fully agreed!!! Retire the shirt, name a stand after him, and build a statue outside the ground!!”
Whittingham spent ten years at Cardiff between the years of 2007-2017, where he racked up 457 appearances in all competitions and found the back of the net on 96 occasions.
He was also a key part of the side that reached the FA Cup final in 2008, losing to Portsmouth, as well as the League Cup final in 2012, while he helped guide the club to Premier League promotion in 2013.
Peter Whittingham’s greatest goals for Cardiff City
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
