Southampton midfielder Sam Mcqueen has decided to hang up his boots due to a major knee injury. The injury kept him out of action for 3 years and now he has finally decided to stop playing football.
The 26-year-old versatile midfielder suffered an anterior cruciate ligament rupture in the EFL Cup. The incident happened while he was on loan at Middlesbrough in October 2018. He was forced to go undergo surgeries several times due to recurring infections.
Speaking to the official Southampton website, McQueen said:
“This has been such an incredibly tough decision to make as I so desperately want to play football again, but I have to do what is right for me and for my family.
The amount of time I’ve had not on my feet and not running has caused my body to de-condition to such a level that now, when I try to join in any parts of training, I continually get muscle tears in certain areas and my knee’s not able to cope, so I was advised I wouldn’t be able to play football for much longer if I did manage to get back fit.
I’ve had a lot of time to reflect on my time at the club. I’m very proud of the things I’ve achieved here. I’m sad there wasn’t more, but later in life I’ll be able to look back on the memories I have.”
Career
Sam Mcqueen joined his hometown club at the age of eight. He went on to play for the Southampton senior team till 2018 and then went on a season loan to Middlesbrough.
He made 20 appearances in the Premier League and played 29 times in total. The midfielder started in both Europa League ties against Inter Milan in 2016. This helped him to represent the England U-21 team in 2017.
Southampton on Mcqueen’s retirement
Southampton expressed their regards to the decision of the 26-year-old star in their social media platforms.
A statement from Southampton read:
“Everyone at Southampton Football Club would like to issue their heartfelt thanks to Sam for his incredible commitment and efforts as a Saints player, as well as for the way he has conducted himself off the pitch.
He will continue to have our support and will be a shining example for all young players coming through the club’s academy.”
