Former Tottenham Hotspur striker Jermain Defoe is hanging up his boots as the 39-year-old announced his retirement from football.
The majority of Defoe’s 22-year career was spent in north London, where he made 362 appearances in all competitions, scoring 143 goals and registering 32 assists.
Defoe called this a tough decision that he had to make, relying on those close to him to determine if he wanted to continue his footballing career.
“After 22 years in the 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,” Defoe said.
“Football will always remain in my blood, and it gives me great pride and satisfaction to look back on the blessed careers that I’ve had. I now look forward to spending some quality time with my friends and family before moving forward on this next chapter in my career.”
Another Tottenham striker chimed in to congratulate Defoe on a spectacular career. Harry Kane tweeted out that the former Spurs striker gave him some good advice when he was a young player with the north London club.
“Top striker, top bloke, and someone who gave me some great advice in my early career as well as his number 18 shirt! Happy retirement @IAmJermainDefoe,” Kane tweeted.
Defoe’s major career accomplishment came with Tottenham, the striker who was part of the squad that won the League Cup during the 2007-08 season when they defeated Chelsea by the score of 2-1. It’s also the last time the north London club has won any silverware.
