Wolves goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme, has announced his retirement from football after battling with cancer for a year.
Carl Ikeme got diagnosed with leukaemia in 2017.
The 32-year old was diagnosed with leukaemia in July 2017 but confirmed last month he is in remission. Following advice from the medical experts, Ikeme has now decided to end his playing career.
Carl Ikeme joined Wolves in 2000, as a 14-year old and made 274 domestic career appearances in all competitions. Ikeme had written an emotional message on his twitter to announce retirement.
“Thank you for the support over the years. My last day as a footballer. But one I am happy and grateful for. Thanks to everyone to do with Wolves and everyone in football I have met.”
Speaking to the club’s official website, the Nigerian goalkeeper said,
“I spoke with the doctor, and he suggested I should retire, because of the toll the treatment has taken on my body. He thinks it’s what is best for me. I can’t really risk trying to come back; my health is the priority.”
“I want to be here for my children, family and friends. In the grand scheme of things with my life in danger, it’s the minimum price I have to pay to spend the rest of my time with my family.”
Wolves later tweeted a video of famous goalkeepers paying tribute to Ikeme, including David Seaman, Petr Cech, Joe Hart, Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Iker Casillas.
Portugal international Rui Patricio is expected to be the club’s number one next season. He joined the club from Sporting CP last month. After being diagnosed with acute leukaemia in 2017, Ikeme had battled cancer for almost a year with support from the football world.