Theo Walcott will return to the football pitch this evening as he features at Soccer Aid.
The Arsenal legend is set to play for England at Stamford Bridge tonight, reminding fans of how good he was during his career.
Walcott played a whopping 563 times in his playing days, scoring 80 goals in the Premier League and 129 goals in total.
He also racked up 47 caps for his country and will unofficially add one more to his tally in the world’s biggest charity game.
When did Theo Walcott retire?
Walcott retired from professional football in August 2023 after leaving Southampton.
The 35-year-old announced that he was calling time on his career over a year ago releasing a farewell video on social media.
Speaking over a video of his highlights, he said: “The first moment I put my football boots on aged 10, was the start of a special journey for me.
“From playing in the park with friends to performing in some of the biggest stadiums, in front of huge crowds across the world.
“The support shown to me throughout this time has been incredible in every way imaginable and I am truly grateful.
“I’ve shared the football pitch with so many incredible players and we have created so many unforgettable memories.
“I would like to say a big thank you to all the managers and coaches I’ve worked with, especially Harry Redknapp for giving me the start and Arsène Wenger for showing belief and support to me when I joined the club at only 16 years old.”
Walcott continued: “The early days at Southampton football club, my transfer to Arsenal where I spent 12 enjoyable years and scored over 100 goals. Winning the FA Cup and scoring in the final which is every kids dream.
“To have had the opportunity to represent England 47 times, going to the World Cup in 2006, aged just 17 and still to hold the record for the youngest ever debut by a senior England player and youngest hatrick goalscorer at 19 – I will never forget that feeling.
“Goodison Park is such a special place to play and Everton will always be in my heart, I loved my time there and will never forget the way the fans welcomed me and my family.
“Then finally back to Southampton to complete the circle. It’s a great club with an exciting young team that I know will get better and better. I’m lucky enough to have had offers to continue playing, but it feels right to finish where I started and hang up my football boots.
“Thank you to everyone who has been with me along the way.”
Since retirement, Walcott has appeared as a pundit on Sky Sports and has impressed fans, meaning similar roles could be his post-playing career job.
News Summary:
- When did Theo Walcott retire? Arsenal legend in action at Soccer Aid 2024 after calling time on playing career
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