Jermain Defoe has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 39 after a nomadic career that saw him play for no less than eight different clubs over a 22-year career.
The striker’s final game came during a second spell at Sunderland, when he came on as a substitute during Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Lincoln. The Black Cats were a club close to Defoe’s heart and it seems fitting his final appearance in the game was for the Wearsiders.
At his peak, Defoe was regarded as one of the best strikers in the game. Taking in spells at Tottenham, West Ham, Bournemouth and Portsmouth, he amassed numerous goals in England.
He also played overseason, with a 2014 spell with Toronto, while late in his career enjoyed a new lease of life under Steven Gerrard at Rangers. He also played for England, representing his country at the 2010 World Cup and 2012 European Championships. In total, he scored 20 goals in 57 games for the Three Lions.
Announcing his retirement, Defoe lifted the lid on the difficult decision he faced.
“After 22 years in the game, I have decided to retire from professional football,” he posted on Instagram.
“It’s been a really tough decision, and one I have discussed with my family and those closest to me.”
Defoe is the ninth highest scorer in Premier League history, having hit 162 goals in 496 appearances.
“I made my professional debut at 17 years old in 1999, and I feel now is the right time to bow out,” continued his post. “I…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Bournemouth – TEAMtalk…