Richard Stearman has ended his playing career after 585 senior appearances for Leicester City, Wolves, and Derby County.
Former Derby County defender Richard Stearman has announced his retirement from football after a two-decade career with numerous clubs.
Stearman was one of three players released by Derby at the end of last season, and he went on to play 27 appearances for Solihull Moors.
He was a beloved character at Pride Park both on and off the pitch, and he provided vital service to the club, notably during one of its most difficult times.
The centre-back last featured for Derby in the FA Cup, a 3-0 victory against Barnsley, but since then he has been assisting head coach Paul Warne with analysis work from the stands.
Speaking of his retirement, he stated, “As footballers, we all know that this day will come. However, it has always looked to be in the future. That another season of playing will simply happen, since that is what we do.”
He went on to say, “For me, that day has arrived. After 20 years and nearly 600 appearances, I am retiring from professional football.
Looking back on his career, he felt enormous gratitude: “When I reflect on my career, I feel really lucky and happy to have represented the clubs I have. Thank you to all of the managers, coaches, general staff, and my agent, Tam. “None of this would have been possible without you,” claims Yorkshire Live.
Stearman also expressed gratitude to his teammates: “To my teammates, thank you. On a daily basis, you have made going to work an utter pleasure. We’ve experienced extreme highs and lows together, and I consider many of you lifelong friends. In actuality, you are the people I shall miss the most.”
“To our fans. Thank you for your continuing support. As Covid demonstrated, the game is a shadow of itself without you. I’m grateful to have formed a personal bond with several of you. Please know that I have enjoyed my time at each of your clubs. I am and will be a fan of them all.”
“To my parents and sister.” Thank you doesn’t appear to be enough. Your tireless sacrifices have enabled me to realize my ambition. I hope I’ve made you proud.
“Finally, to my amazing wife Beth. Through good and bad times, you’ve been my strongest supporter. You have given me three lovely children, for which I am eternally grateful. Your love and support have meant everything to me. “Our family is my greatest accomplishment.”
After leaving the Rams, Stearman stated, “I’ve had my coaching badges for a while now. I was conscious that I wanted to have that ready to go so that I wouldn’t have to scramble if and when the moment came to top playing. So I have that ready to go.
“Derby have been excellent with me over the last few of seasons, providing me coaching experience even when I wasn’t in a matchday squad.
“I’ve been able to assist during the week and then work on the opposite end of things on game days. I cannot thank them enough.
