Former England and Everton defender Phil Jagielka retires from football aged 41

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After a 23-year career, with more than 700 professional games, English footballer Phil Jagielka has decided to retire.

The former England, Everton and Sheffield United defender announced his retirement on Tuesday, November 28, aged 41.

Jagielka was released by Championship side Stoke at the end of last season and decided to end a 23-year professional playing career.

Jagielka has made over 750 club appearances, whilst winning 40 caps for England between 2008 and 2016.

He scored three goals for England and was part of the Euro 2012 and 2014 World Cup squads.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “As you can see from the moment, I tried to put myself out there a bit more to see if anyone would like to give me an opportunity to extend it, but they didn’t and I understood that.

“I’m very proud to play at 40 years old.

“If you had sat me down when I was a 15- or 16-year-old kid, after being told I wasn’t good enough, and then gone ahead and told me that I had scored at 40, played at 40 and had the career I’ve had. I had then, I don’t think I can have many complaints.

Jagielka made over 300 appearances for Sheffield United across two spells at the club

“I managed to stay in England for almost a decade and somehow managed to win 40 caps.

“I scored a few goals along the way and luckily I captained the team.

“Playing for your country is an incredible achievement and it wasn’t something I expected to do. I was released at 15 or 16 and managed to bounce back to the top.”

Asked what’s next, Jagielka replied: “I always said when I retired it would be golf, golf, golf!

“Am I going to work as a coach or not? I don’t know.”

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Source: www.lindaikejisblog.com