Super Eagles Goalkeeper Carl Ikeme Announces Retirement

Super Eagles Goalkeeper Carl Ikeme Announces Retirement

Nigeria goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, who was diagnosed with acute leukaemia in July 2017, has announced his retirement from football.

The Wolves shot-stopper brings down the curtain on his career at the age of 32 after making over 200 appearances for the club.

His retirement comes after he announced in June that he was in “complete remission” after “a tough year and intense chemotherapy” to tackle his leukaemia.

It is understood that his decision to retire has come after consulting medical experts

In a statement, Wolves chairman Jeff Shi praised the goalkeeper’s strength of character in “what has been a very challenging time for him”.

“Carl is more than just a player in our eyes – he is our brother and an important part of our family,” Shi said.

“When Carl came to tell us his news, yes there was sadness, but also great happiness to see him so healthy and hungry for the opportunities that lay ahead of him.

“Carl is strong, a fighter, something he has proven in his playing career and also during what has been a very challenging time for him, so I have no doubt he will be a success in whatever he does next.

“We wish Carl all the very best for the future, but remind him he will always remain a part of the Wolves family,”

Ikeme joined Wolves – who won the Championship last season to earn promotion to the Premier League – as a 14-year-old.

He featured 10 times for the Super Eagles, who honoured him at this summer’s World Cup by naming him as their 24th squad member.