Jermain Defoe retires: 39-year-old former Tottenham striker calls it a day

Former Tottenham and Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe has anunced his retirement from professional football at of 39. Taking to social media, Jermain Defoe - who has 57 caps for  Three Lions side - anunced his decision to hang up his boots. 

Defoe h an illustrious career at club level playing for 22 years since making his debut as a 17-year-old in 1999, making 731 appearances across all competitions and scoring 286 times. player is quite popular especially among English Premier League fans, having played for  Lilywhites (Tottenham Hotspur) in two different stints scoring 143 goals for m.  player also currently finds himself in ninth place in Premier League’s all-time top scorer list having scored 162 goals. 

Jermain Defoe's full statement on retirement

“After 22 years in game, I have decided to retire from professional football. It's been a really tough decision, and one I have discussed with my family and those closest to me.

“I me my professional debut at 17 years old in 1999, and I feel w is right time to bow out. I have h an incredible journey, and have met some amazing people in game.

“Football will always be in my blood, and it gives me great pride and satisfaction to look back on blessed career that I've h. I w look forward to spending some quality time with my friends and family before moving forward on this next chapter in my career.

“Thank you to all fans from each club I've played for. love I have received and endured throughout my career will never be forgotten, and I will always have a special bond with you all.

“Thank you also to my amazing team-mates, coaches and staff for playing such an integral part in my career.

“Lastly, I want to say thank you to my mum. You gave me a ball at two years old and you me me believe my dream could happen. All that I am is because of you, and I owe everything to you and God.”