Ashley Young has confirmed he will retire from professional football at the end of the current season, bringing the curtain down on a 23-year career.
The 40-year-old made the announcement in an emotional statement, revealing that his final appearance will come with Ipswich Town as the club completes its campaign.
Young has been sidelined since January after struggling with a persistent hip injury that ruled him out of action for the closing stages of the season. Despite that, he has remained around the squad and expressed his willingness to support the team in any way possible as they continue their push.
Reflecting on his long journey in football, the veteran defender described his career as a dream fulfilled and expressed gratitude for everything he achieved over more than two decades in the game.
“I am incredibly proud and fortunate to have achieved everything I have during my career,”
“It’s not too often you sit and think about this while you are still in the game, but I have lived my dream during the last 23 years.”
During his career, Young enjoyed spells at several clubs, most notably Manchester United, where he also served as captain and won multiple honours before continuing his journey into his later playing years.
