Premier League cult hero FINALLY retires from football aged 37

A Premier League icon has finally decided to call time on his 20-year professional career after failing to play for the last two years.

The striker previously enjoyed a successful spell at Sunderland when he was originally snapped up for a then-record club transfer fee of £12million. 

Impressive performances at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa saw him shortlisted alongside Diego Forlan and Wesley Sneijder for player of the tournament as European clubs were put on alert to a new star in the making.

A move to Sunderland followed and he quickly marked his announcement with a goal on his Premier League debut in a 1-1 draw with Wigan.

The 37-year-old starred for Sunderland for two years between 2010 and 2012 before leaving for United Arab Emirates side Al-Ain and never returned to an English club.

Asamoah Gyan (middle) starred for Sunderland during a two-year spell at the club

His career tailed off in recent years after leaving Ghanaian Premier League side Legon Cities in 2021 and failing to make an appearance in the following two years. 

A Sunderland star during his time in the north east, Asamoah Gyan became a fan favourite amongst Black Cats supporters due to his attacking potency and more notable outlandish dance celebrations.

On Wednesday, Gyan stated his retirement at a press conference where he was joined by friends and officials.

A statement published by the 37-year-old on his social media, read: ‘I want to take this great opportunity, a stage that is difficult in every footballer’s career.

‘A moment all footballers do not wish, but when nature dawns, that thin voice will keep echoing into the ears, it is time.

‘That voice has been clear in my ears, and I have succumbed to it, it is time.

‘It is time to hand the jersey and boots in glory as I officially retire from active football.

‘But then again, I am minded by views shared by great businessmen and sporting gurus, ‘you do not leave your love’, together with my management, we will continue encouraging and pushing young talents,’ he added.

Gyan further went on to outline he would now pursue a career in coaching and scouting, adding: ‘I will put my experience and knowledge to use in the field of coaching, football business and scouting.

Gyan (middle) became a Premier League icon due to his outlandish goal celebrations

‘I want to thank my beloved country Ghana, my family, my colleagues from school, those from colts and Blackstar from 2002 to date, club mates, coaches and everybody who has played a role in my career as a footballer, I say thank you.’

However, despite starring for Sunderland, Gyan is most well-known for his quarter-final penalty miss at the 2010 World Cup.

The 6ft 1in striker was handed the ball after Luis Suarez handballed an effort of the line in the dying minutes of extra time and was subsequently sent off.

Gyan was given the responsibility of taking the deciding spot-kick but smashed his effort into the bar. Uruguay would advance to the semi-finals at Ghana’s expense.