Former Wolves, Leicester City, Sheffield United, Huddersfield, Derby and Fulham man announces retirement at 36

Former Wolves defender Richard Stearman has announced his retirement from professional football.

The Wolverhampton-born defender has called it a day after a 20-year career which saw him play mainly play in the Championship, where he was a part of two promotion winning teams. Stearman's last club was Solihull Moors of the National League, and he ended up playing 26 matches before calling it a day.

In a social media post, he began with: “As players we all know that this day will eventually come. However, it has always somehow seemed in the future. That another season playing will just happen, as that's what we do."

"Well for me that day has now arrived. After 20 years and nearly 600 appearances I am announcing my retirement from professional football.

“Reflecting on my career I feel incredibly fortunate and proud to have represented the clubs I have. Thank you to all the managers, coaches, general members of staff and my agent Tam. Without you guys none of it would have been possible.”

Stearman's career began at Leicester City, where he played four Championship campaigns before moving to his hometown club. Stearman joined in 2008 and helped the club win promotion to the Premier League, playing top-flight football for three seasons, and also stayed when the club dropped to League One.

The 36-year-old ended up making a total of 234 games, and later went on to play for Ipswich Town and Fulham, before a brief return to Wolves in 2016. The other clubs in his career include Sheffield United, Huddersfield Town and Derby County.

In total, Stearman made 585 appearances in his club career, and also made four appearances for the England under-21 national team. He won the Championship and League One with Wolves, and also won automatic promotion with Sheffield United.

He continued with; “To the fans. Thank you for your continued support throughout. As Covid proved, the game is a shadow of itself without you. I feel grateful to have built a special bond with many of you. Please know I have loved my time at each one of your clubs. I am and will continue to be a fan of them all."

"To my parents and sister. Thank you doesn't seem to be enough. Your endless sacrifices have made it possible for me to live my dream. I hope I have made you proud."

"Lastly to my incredible wife Beth. My biggest supporter through the good times and bad. You have given me three beautiful children for which I am eternally grateful for. Your love and support has meant the world to me. Our family is my greatest achievement."