Former Crystal Palace defender retires from football

Former Crystal Palace defender Gary Cahill has announced his retirement from football.

Cahill spent two seasons at Selhurst Park under Roy Hodgson, making 47 appearances in all competitions and scoring once.

The former Chelsea and Bournemouth centre-back, 36, won the Champions League, two Premier League titles, two Europa Leagues and two FA Cups during his career.

Cahill also made 61 appearances for England, featuring in two World Cups for the Three Lions.

In a statement, Cahill said: “Football is a game that has given me so much enjoyment and success and as I make the decision to hang up my boots, I can honestly say I gave it everything I had.

“I’ve achieved things I once dreamt of, creating some incredible memories. From amazing highs like winning the Champions League and Premier League, to the privilege of captaining my country and Chelsea in an FA Cup winning team will remain with me forever. 

“I’ve also made some fantastic friendships with people across the football world, from teammates, managers, and the unsung heroes behind the scenes, I just want to say a massive thank you.

“Taking the decision to stop playing is not an easy one. I’ve spent 20 years training every day, putting in the work to be in the best possible shape for matchday to help the teams l’ve played for be successful. 

“I’ve had time to consider my options and after much deliberation and reflection I feel now is the time to move on to the next stage of my career.

“A special thank you must go to my amazing family who have supported me and been there every step of the way. I now have the opportunity to spend some quality time with them which is something I’m looking forward to.

“Beyond that, football will always be part of who I am and what I love so this is just the end of this chapter. For me it’s important to look forwards not backwards as a new chapter in my life begins.”