THEO WALCOTT has retired aged 34 despite having offers to continue playing.
The former Arsenal winger decided to hang up his boots following Southampton’s relegation from the Premier League.
GettyTheo Walcott revealed he had offers to continue playing[/caption]
Walcott revealed he had offers to carry on in an emotional farewell message announcing his retirement.
He shared his pride at playing for the likes of Arsenal, Everton and England in the post, while thanking Harry Redknapp and Arsene Wenger for giving him a chance and showing belief in him.
The message reads: “The support shown to me throughout this time has been incredible in every way imaginable and I am truly grateful.
“I would like to say a big thank you to all the managers and coaches I’ve worked with, especially Harry [Redknapp] for giving me the start and Arsene [Wenger] for showing belief and support to me when I joined the club at only 16-years-old.”
Walcott was heavily linked with a free transfer switch to League One Reading following his Saints exit.
And the 47-cap former England star stated his aim was to continue playing when he announced he would be leaving Southampton in May.
More to follow…