November 29 – Ex-Everton defender Phil Jagielka has announced his retirement from football at age 41.
The 40-capped Englishman ended his 23-year professional playing career after being released by League One side Stoke City at the end of last season.
The defender’s career was shaped by long stints with boyhood club Sheffield United sandwiching a 12-year stint at Everton, alongside spells at Derby County and Stoke.
“All good things come to an end and after just over 800 appearances my playing career is done,” Jagielka said on social media.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I would get to play football at the highest level for some amazing clubs as well as my country.
“It’s been an absolute honour to step onto the grass for every match and I have so many people to thank for that.”
Jagielka’s former club Everton, where he spent his best years, took to social media to congratulate their former centre half on his retirement, replying to his announcement: “All the best in retirement, Jags. Thanks for giving your all every game in the royal blue jersey.”
Speaking to Sky Sports, Jagielka probed into his life after football and what comes next for the ex-England star: “I always said that when I retired it was going to be golf, golf, golf! But I’m just going to take a bit of time out.
“Will I go into coaching or not? I don’t know.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1714390336labto1714390336ofdlr1714390336owedi1714390336sni@g1714390336niwe.1714390336yrrah1714390336