Super Eagles goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme has finally quit the round leather game after announcing it today (Friday).
Ikeme, who was diagnosed of leukaemia cancer last year (2017) by Wolves medics and missed playing for the Super Eagles at the just concluded 2018 World Cup in Russia, said his announcement from club and country football was based on doctors advise.
He spent his whole career as a Wolves player where he played over 200 matches but made loan appearances for eight other clubs
‘I spoke with the doctor and he suggested I should retire, because of the toll the treatment has taken on my body,' he told the club's official website.
‘He thinks it's what is best for me and 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.
IKEME'S CAREER
Wolves (2003-18): 207 appearances
Accrington Stanley on loan (2004): 4 appearances
Stockport County on loan (2005-06): 9 appearances
Charlton Athletic on loan (2009): 5 appearances
Sheffield United on loan (2009): 2 appearances
QPR on loan (2010): 17 appearances
Leicester on loan (2010): 5 appearances
Middlesbrough on loan (2011): 10 appearances
Doncaster on loan (2011 & 2012): 15 appearances
Nigeria (2015-18): 10 appearances
‘It's not really set in since speaking to the doctor. In time I can have a good look back, it's been incredible for me personally to have been at Wolves from 14 to 31 – playing for just one club is something I'm proud of.
‘It's nice to have been a one-club man because it's rare these days. I'm proud that I can always come back to Wolverhampton and always have friends here, and be loved, it's incredible.'
After the announcement Ikeme tweeted, he said: ‘Thank you for the support over the years. My last day as a footballer. But one I am happy and great full for !!! (sic) Thanks to everyone to do with @wolves and everyone in football I have met.'
He spent his whole career as a Wolves player where he played over 200 matches but made loan appearances for eight other clubs.
