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One former Liverpool cult hero has announced he is set to retire from professional football at the end of this season.

Several players have gone through Anfield over the years.



Some have left without really leaving a mark on the club, while others have left with their names etched in fans’ memories.

The last ten years have been particularly remarkable for the club and several of the players who were part of the club in the last ten seasons or so, have gone down as legends.

While some of these players never stayed around for long to become part of the title-winning squads of Jurgen Klopp, a couple of them were part of the German’s early reforms at the club.

One such player is Joe Allen.

Signed by Brendan Rodgers in August 2012 after impressing in Swansea’s midfield, the Welshman spent four years at the club before leaving in 2016, a year after Klopp arrived.

While Allen never got to enjoy the experience of winning a title, the midfielder was part of the Liverpool squad that came close to winning several trophies, including the 2013/14 Premier League title and the 2016 Europa League in Klopp’s first season.

After leaving Liverpool with 132 appearances under his belt, Allen played for Stoke City before returning to Swansea, where it all started for him.

However, has now announced that he will bring an end to his playing career in the coming days.

The 35-year-old announced on Friday that he will retire from professional football at the end of the season.

Allen will play his final game for boyhood club Swansea against Oxford United on Saturday.

Explaining his decision, Allen said: “This is incredibly difficult.

I’m really looking forward to what’s going to be my last game on Saturday.”

Reflecting on an impressive career, that has seen him play for Liverpool and reprenst Wales at international tournaments, Allen admitted he was extremely happy with what he had achieved.

“I’m very proud,’ he added.

‘I didn’t think I’d be sat here playing as many games as I have for clubs I have done at that level and for Wales as well.

“I’ve been incredibly fortunate and as I’ve reflected over the last few weeks I’m very grateful and thankful to everyone who has helped me on my way to have these amazing experiences.

“To be announcing my retirement as a Swansea City player makes it extra special.

To finish my career where it started, it feels like everything has come full circle.”

The midfielder, who earned the nickname ‘The Welsh Xavi won 77 caps for Wales, scoring twice, and he was part of their memorable run to the semi-finals at Euro 2016.

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