Salford City defender and ex-Wales international, James Chester has announced his retirement from football.
The 36-year-old has made over 500 professional appearances at all levels of the Football League and on the international stage with Wales.
James who began his career at Manchester United, only making one appearance for the club – before seeing spells on loan at Peterborough, Plymouth Argyle, and Carlisle.
Following the loan spells, James Chester went onto a permanent move to Hull City – helping to the club to promotion in 2013.
And after two seasons for Hull City in the Premier League and 156 appearances for the club – he was sadly relegated.
However, was signed for Premier League West Brom Albion on a four-year contract for a reported fee of £8 million in 2014.
And despite the large transfer sum, he would only last a season at the club before moving to Aston Villa in 2016.
He would spend four years at Aston Villa, and his efforts between 2014 and 2018, would see the Welshman feature 35 times for his national side.
His time with Wales was also a memorable one, playing in all six games in Wales’s journey to the semi-final of Euro 2016, playing on the right-hand side of the team’s central defensive three.
His time with Aston Villa however would come to an end in 2020, where he would join Stoke City, Derby County, and Barrow – before making the move to the Ammies this season.
Following the announcement, James shared on his social media: “After 18 years as a professional footballer and over 500 games, the time has come for me to announce my retirement.
“It’s been an incredible journey, filled with unforgettable moments, amazing teammates, fantastic staff and unwavering support at every club I’ve played for.”
He continued: “I’m incredibly proud of everything I’ve achieved in the game, and now I’m excited to see what my life brings next.
“I’ll remain part of the Salford City squad until the end of the season, where I’ll continue learning about the other aspects of football. Thank you all for everything.”
And despite only making two appearances for the club in cup competitions, having battled with injury, he will remain with the squad to continue learning.
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