Bradley Johnson, a Norwich City and Derby County star, has announced his retirement from professional football.
The 36-year-old midfielder, who currently works with Derby’s under-21s, ended his playing career on social media.
Bradley Johnson announces retirement
In a statement posted to his X account, he wrote, “After 20 incredible years and over 600 games, I am announcing my retirement from professional football.”
“I’ve had an incredible ride and know deep down that, while I still feel physically capable of continuing, now is the moment to announce my retirement in order to focus on my coaching profession.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of my journey. I’ve had an amazing playing career, which I’m incredibly proud of.
“There have been extreme highs, difficult lows and numerous challenges along the way but looking back now I wouldn’t change any of it.”
The former midfielder discussed what it was like to win the play-offs with Norwich in 2015.
“There have been some unbelievable moments along the way,” Johnson told the audience.
“I’m incredibly proud to have played in, and gained promotion from, all of League Two, League One and the Championship – including getting promoted to the Premier League with Norwich in front of a full Wembley Stadium on what was one of the most amazing days of my life.”
The 36-year-old praised everyone who had helped him get to where he is today, as well as for everything he had accomplished in his career.
“I’d like to thank everyone at the clubs I’ve played for.
“I want to thank all of my teammates, staff, management, and, most importantly, the incredible fans of Cambridge, Northampton, Stevenage, Ebbsfleet, Leeds, Bright-on, Norwich, Derby, Blackburn, and MK Dons.” You all hold a particular place in my heart.
“A special thank you to my mother Karen, father Keith, brothers Dean, Jack, and Louis, and sister Abbie. You made it all possible, and I will never forget your dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering support.
“I’d like to thank Neil Fewings, Duncan Ross, Fahri Ecvet, Roxanne Hessian, and Olivia Chilton, who have served as my management team throughout my career.
“And finally to the most important people in my life; my incredible wife Nereasha – who has always been such a constant pillar of support – and my three beautiful children; Harley, Mason and Rome.”
The former Ram’s full statement is below.
I lived my dream 🙌🏼⚽️❤️❤️
Thank you ❤️ pic.twitter.com/gsyuEdnWmQ— Bradley Johnson (@BradJohnson15) April 26, 2024
Bradley Johnson’s career
Johnson played 155 games for Derby, 140 for Norwich, and 140 for Leeds United. He played more games for these three teams than for any other during his two-decade career.
His resume boasts an impressive amount of accomplishments. He appeared in three play-off finals during his career, winning only one with Norwich.
He spent the majority of his career with Derby and City, but half of his best personal achievements occurred while playing at Elland Road.
Johnson was named Leeds’ player of the season for the 2010/11 season. He received the same award in the season when the Canaries won the play-offs (2014/15).
The midfielder also earned the Whites’ goal of the season award for a spectacular strike against Arsenal that season.
Just a few of these events could lead to a successful career for many EFL footballers, and those are just a few examples.
The comments on his X post highlight even more amazing moments from his long career as a player, and the outpouring of love and affection for him upon the announcement of this news creates a picture of him as a player and what he meant to others.