Former Sheffield Wednesday, Coventry City and Charlton Athletic player Richard Wood has announced his retirement from football on his X account.
Wood has ended his playing career at the age of 39. He will formally hang up his boots when his contract with Doncaster Rovers expires at the end of next month.
Wood, from Ossett, began his career with Sheffield Wednesday as a kid. He has since played more than 650 games.
He wrote on social media, “You must listen to your body and say stop at the appropriate time. It has not been without lengthy and careful consideration that I have come to this conclusion, and, truth be told, I have never really contemplated the reality of hanging up the old magic hat until now. “I believe that tells its own story.”
He continued, “It has been a fairytale. I’m at a loss for words to express how fortunate I am to have had the career that I have: 667 appearances for eight different clubs – no wonder I’m creaking! – and five promotions is a CV I could never have imagined writing as a fresh-faced 17-year-old making my debut for Sheffield Wednesday in 2003.”
Ex-Sheffield Wednesday, Coventry City and Charlton Athletic player Richard Wood retires
He continued, “It has been a fairytale. I’m at a loss for words to express how fortunate I am to have had the career that I have: 667 appearances for eight different clubs – no wonder I’m creaking! – and five promotions is a CV I could never have imagined writing as a fresh-faced 17-year-old making my debut for Sheffield Wednesday in 2003.”
Charlton Athletic eventually drew him down south in 2013. However, he did not stay in London for long, returning to the north after a year.
Wood went on to become a crucial player for Rotherham United, where he was a valuable asset. He made 256 appearances and scored 22 goals.
Doncaster Rovers promotion
Doncaster Rovers signed Wood in 2023 to strengthen their defensive lineup. He has added competition and depth to Grant McCann’s defensive choices while also injecting significant experience into the squad.
Since signing with Rovers, the Yorkshireman has appeared in 34 games. They were promoted from League Two and are currently getting ready for life in League One.
However, Wood has ended his playing career and will consider his next move. He has had injury concerns over the past year.
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