Anderton to retire from football

Former England midfielder Darren Anderton will play the last game of his football career on Saturday.

The 36-year-old Bournemouth player, who has 30 England caps, began his career in 1990 and has played for Portsmouth, Tottenham, Birmingham City and Wolves.

His last game will be against Chester in League Two and will be the 569th of his career.

"It's a tough decision and Saturday will be a sad day," he told the Bournemouth Echo.

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"His languid style has often disguised a commitment to all the clubs he has played for"
Johnny Cantor - BBC Radio Solent

Anderton, who has been with the Cherries for the past two years, spent 12 years with Spurs between 1992 and 2004, and also starred for England in 1996, despite missing much of the season through injury in their progression to the European Championship semi-finals.

He added: "I've been lucky to come to Bournemouth and have really enjoyed it. It's been a great way to finish my career.

"I was finding training hard work and rather than just slogging on and not enjoying it, I have made this decision.

"I would to thank all the supporters for the fantastic backing I have had since my first minute at the club."

Anderton's only domestic honour was the Worthington Cup, which he won with Spurs in 1999 - while his last five England caps came under five different managers.

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