'I’m just thankful that I found Swansea City' - Wayne Routledge bids emotional farewell to Jack Army as he confirms retirement
The winger made over 300 appearances for the Swans but has now decided to call time on his playing career
Wayne Routledge has bid an emotional farewell to Swansea City after confirming his retirement from professional football.
The 36-year-old recently called time on his Swansea City career after turning down the offer a new deal, and has now decided to hang up his boots for good.
The former Newcastle United and QPR star initially announced the news on his social media on Monday, having previously made 305 appearances for the Swans, netting 33 goals in the process.
Speaking on his decision, he told the club's official website: “I think the hardest part is actually leaving this place, I’ve made friends for life, unbelievable memories and also now I have a beautiful family. To leave this place was the hardest decision,” explained Routledge as he looked back on his decade in the city.
“I think the biggest factor of it is that my kids are of an age now where they need to be around their family, so that’s kind of dictated it.
“My eldest is going into GCSE year, my little girl is going into her first year of school and my little boy is in that stage where he’s going to start school.
“They need to be settled in a place where they can actually grow up and be around their family.
“To be honest with you, I haven’t truly decided what is coming next yet.
“The club have been great with me, and I’ll be doing a couple of bits and pieces in capacity here so that’s great. But long term, I haven’t fully decided yet.”
The winger retires as a firm favourite with the Jack Army, having established himself at SA1 after previously playing for eight different clubs in 10 years, including a brief spell with bitter rivals Cardiff City.
“Before I came here, I was a bit here, there, and everywhere and then I came here and found a way of football that suited me, found a place that loved having me here, found a place that I loved being at and it all clicked,” Routledge added
“I’ve done so much in the time I’ve been here; I wouldn’t even be able to list it all,” he added.
“When I look back I’m just grateful that the club came in for me, took a lot of time out to actually sign me and get me here.
“I’m just thankful that I found Swansea and Swansea found me.”
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