Former United States international Clint Dempsey has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 35.
Dempsey has enjoyed a glittering career, with the attacker netting 72 goals from 275 appearances for Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur as well as scoring 57 goals from 141 outings for his country.
The last five years have been spent with Seattle Sounders, but the veteran attacker has decided that now is the right time to call a halt to a 15-year career.
In a statement posted on the Seattle Sounders website, Dempsey said: "After a lot of thought, my family and I have decided that this is the right time for me to step away from the game.
"I'd like to thank all of the teammates, coaches and support staff that I've worked with throughout my career. It has always been my dream to make it as a pro. I'm grateful to have been on this ride.
"I would like to thank all of the fans who have supported me throughout my career with the New England Revolution, Fulham, Tottenham, Seattle Sounders and the U.S. Men's National Team. Y'all have always made me feel at home, and it is something that I will always remember."
Dempsey retires having won the MLS Cup with Seattle in 2016 and helped Fulham to the final of the Europa League in 2010.
Darren Plant
