Former club legend Scott Parker retires aged 36

Former England International and West Ham United midfielder Scott Parker has retired at 36-years-old.

Photo by Scott Heavey/Getty Images

After an illustrious career spanning over 20 seasons for some of the Premier League's greatest clubs, his current four-year spell with Championship side Fulham came to an end today, after he finally decided to hang up his boots.

In a career marred by injury, he played over 400 times for teams including Charlton Athletic, Newcastle United, Chelsea, West Ham United, Tottenham and Fulham.

The club legend will forever be remembered however for his endeavours during the 2010/11 campaign, as he was named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association.

West Ham were relegated and finished 20th that year, as Parker topped the poll of journalists ahead of Tottenham winger Gareth Bale, who was named the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year, making the underrated midfielders award seem so much more impressive.

The midfield maestro won three Hammer of the Year awards during his time at West Ham and was capped 129 times, scoring 12 goals for the club, he also made 18 appearances for his country.

After battling through four years of struggle at West Ham, Parker made a career changing move in the eyes of some, by moving across town to bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur in order to remain in the Premier League and keep his budding career with England alive.

In a full statement Scott Parker said;

"The decision to retire has not been an easy one for me but having thought long and hard over it, and having discussed it with those closest to me, I believe that now is the right time to move on to the next chapter in my life and career.

"When I started my career at Charlton Athletic all those years ago I could only have dreamt at that time just what was to follow over the next two decades. I feel incredibly honoured and proud to have enjoyed the career that I have and I've loved every moment of it.

"I have enjoyed so many incredible moments during my career. From making my first team debut at Charlton, to playing regularly in the Premier League, playing in the Champions League to then playing in a major tournament for England, as well as ultimately fulfilling a lifelong dream by captaining my country. There are just too many highlights to mention.

"I would like to thank everyone at Charlton Athletic, Norwich City, Chelsea, Newcastle United, West Ham United, Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham for the unbelievable support that I've been shown throughout my time at each and every one of the club's I've been proud to represent.

"Thank you to the fans of all of the clubs that I've been lucky enough to play for. Your support has meant everything to me and you've supported me throughout all of the ups and downs during my career. I hope I was able to repay the faith shown in me by my commitment and performances on the pitch.

"I would like to thank all of my teammates over the course of my career as well as the coaches and managers that I've played under. I've learnt a huge amount from everyone that I've worked with that I have no doubt will hugely benefit me in my next career chapter.

"Finally, and most importantly, I would like to thank my family for all of their unconditional love and support throughout. My wife Carly, and all of her family, and our sons Frankie, Murphy, Sonny and Rafa have been there for me through everything and I thank them from the bottom of my heart. Thank you too to my Mum and Dad, who I hope I've made proud. Without them all nothing would have been possible.

"When I was a boy I dreamt of becoming a professional football player and I feel very honoured to have accomplished my dream. I have always tried to set high standards on and off the pitch. I hope most of all throughout my career I have been a good role model not only to my sons but also to all of my teammates who played with me as well as all those who supported me.

"I'm now looking forward to the next chapter of my life and career and hope to make an announcement soon with regards to what that will be."

Everyone at Brace The Hammer thanks you for your efforts during your time at West Ham, Scott. We wish you all the best in your retirement!