Former England international Jermain Defoe confirms retirement from football

Jermain Defoe has confirmed he will retire from professional football with immediate effect, with the former England international now looking forward to the next chapter of his career.

Over a 22-year playing career, Defoe scored 162 top-flight goals and was awarded 57 England caps, scoring 20 goals, most recent of which came in March 2017.

Having helped Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title last season, the 39-year-old rejoined Sunderland at the end of January, on a short-term deal until the end of the season.

However, after just seven appearances for the Black Cats the veteran forward has confirmed now is the time for him to hang up his boots, bringing the curtain down on what he describes as an "incredible journey".

"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," he wrote on social media.

"I made my professional debut at 17 years old in 1999, and I feel now is the right time to bow out. I have had an incredible journey, and have met some amazing people in the game.

"Football will always remain in my blood, and it gives me great pride and satisfaction to look back on the blessed career 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.

"Thank you to all the fans from each club I've played for. The love I have received and endured throughout my career will never be forgotten, and I will always have a special bond with you all.

"Thank you also to my amazing team mates, coaches, and staff for playing such an integral part in my career. Lastly, I want to say thank you to my mum.

"You gave me a ball at two years old, and you made me believe my dream could happen. All that I am is because of you, and I owe everything to you and God."

Defoe made his senior debut for West Ham in September 200, scoring in a 1-0 win over Walsall in the League Cup. He would go on to score 41 times for the Hammers, including 11 in the second tier following the club's relegation in 2003. He then joined Tottenham, where he would enjoy the most successful time of his career, scoring 64 times in all competitions during his four-and-a-half seasons in North London.

After a 12-month stint with Portsmouth, in January 2009 Defoe rejoined Spurs, where he played for another six seasons, ultimately leaving the club as their sixth highest ever goalscorer with 143 strikes in all competitions.

He then had a spell in MLS with Toronto FC before returning to the Premier League with Sunderland, it was during his time with the Mackems where Defoe befriended Bradley Lowery, a terminally-ill youngster and continues to work with the foundation in the years since Bradley's tragic passing.

Following spells with Bournemouth and Rangers he returned to the Stadium of Light, where he played seven appearances, with his last coming in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Lincoln City.