Wales captain, Ashley Williams announces retirement from Professional Football at 36
Wales captain, Ashley Williams has officially announced his retirement from professional football.
The 36-year-old defender retires as captain of his country, after being a free agent since leaving Bristol City in June 2020 when they opted against renewing his deal at Ashton Gate.
Wolverhampton-born Williams made more than 700 appearances for clubs throughout his playing career for Stockport County, Swansea City, Everton, and Bristol City.
In a statement released via his social media channels, Williams wrote: ‘After consideration of recent offers to continue playing, I would like to announce my retirement as a professional footballer.
‘It has been an honour to play 741 games across all levels of English football leagues and to represent some incredible teams.
‘It has been an unbelievable journey and one I will look back on with my family and be immensely proud of.
‘Started from non-league to playing at the highest level in the Premier League, as well as representing my country on 86 occasions was beyond my wildest dreams.
‘Captaining Wales in a semi-final (of the) European Championships in 2016 was my greatest achievement and something I will never forget.
‘Football has taught me so much both on and off the field and I will take this with me into the next chapter. I look forward to still being involved in the game in the future.’
