Former England striker Jermain Defoe has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 39.
Defoe scored 20 goals in 57 games for his country and travelled to the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012.
His career ended with a second spell at Sunderland, with his final appearance coming as a substitute in Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Lincoln in Sky Bet League One.
“After 22 years in the game, I have decided to retire from professional football,” he posted on Instagram.
“It’s been a really tough decision, and one I have discussed with my family and those closest to me.”
Defoe is the ninth highest scorer in Premier League history, having hit 162 goals in 496 appearances.
…