Charlie Wyke has confirmed his retirement from professional football

Former Sunderland striker Charlie Wyke has announced his retirement from professional football aged 33.

Wyke made 114 appearances across all competitions for Sunderland in a three-year spell at the club, which included the club's first win at Wembley since 1973 when they beat Tranmere Rovers in the Papa John's Trophy final.

The striker suffered a cardiac arrest during training at Wigan Athletic in 2021, but returned to action in the following campaign. Wyke most recently played for Carlisle United but has now called time on his career, saying that he'll leave the game with 'memories he'll treasure forever and friendships that will last a lifetime.'

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Charlier Wyke's retirement statement in full

"According to the doctors, this day should have come a long time ago," Wyke wrote.

"I proved them wrong then, but after a lot of thought, I've decided it's the right time to retire from football.

“As a kid growing up in Middlesbrough, all I ever wanted to do was play football. I could never have imagined where that dream would take me. Football has given me memories I'll carry with me forever. I've been lucky enough to play for nine brilliant clubs, win promotions, lift a trophy at Wembley and share dressing rooms with some unbelievable people over the last 15 years.

“Like any career, there have been highs and lows. Mine just happened to include a couple of challenges I never thought I'd have to face. When I suffered a cardiac arrest in 2021, I didn't know if I'd ever play football again. To be honest, football wasn't my biggest concern. I just wanted to be there for Chelsea and to see Albie and Ava grow up. The quick thinking of Leam Richardson and Dr Jonathan Tobin saved my life, and I will be forever in debt to them. The support I received from my family, friends and everyone in football gave me the strength to keep going.

“To pull a shirt on again and walk back out onto a football pitch is something I'll never, ever take for granted," he added.

"It wasn't just my comeback – it was for everyone who stuck with me through my darkest days. After returning to action at Wigan and going back to Carlisle, another setback came along after life finally felt settled again. In 2024, I suffered injuries that meant 462 days of rehabilitation. Once again, football had to take a back seat.

“Some days were hard. Really hard. There were times when it felt like I wasn't getting anywhere, but every step forward was worth it. Not just because I wanted to play again, but because I wanted my children to see no matter what life throws at you, you keep going.

“People will always tell you something can't be done. They'll tell you your time is up or that it’s time to throw in the towel. I'm proud that I never listened. I'm even prouder that I've been able to finish my career on my own terms.

“To every teammate, manager, coach, physio, doctor, member of staff and supporter who's been part of my journey, thank you. I wouldn't be writing this today without you.

“Most importantly, thank you to Chelsea, Albie and Ava, my Mam and Dad, my brothers Matty and George, and my agents from day one, Lee and Mark. You've been my reason to keep going every single day. Every setback, every sleepless night and every good moment has been easier because of you. Football has given me so much, but my family will always be my greatest achievement. I leave the game with memories I'll treasure forever and friendships that will last a lifetime.

“It's been an incredible journey, and I'm excited to see what comes next. Thank you for everything.”

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