John Hartson, the former Celtic striker, has announced his retirement after leaving West Bromwich Albion. The 32-year-old, who won 50 caps for Wales, was released by the Championship team last month and has decided to quit rather than play on in the lower leagues.
Hartson, who has been struggling for form and fitness, said he had lost his desire to play football. “A part of my life has been winding down and, yes, I’m going to miss that competitive edge,” he said. “That was my weekend, after all, letting off steam and terrorising centre-halves. I’m not going to miss training though. To be honest I’d lost my desire to get back into the West Brom side.”
The striker who began his career at Luton Town and went on to have spells with Arsenal, West Ham United, Wimbledon, Coventry City, Celtic and Norwich City, said he was not prepared to end his playing career at a low level. “They say you should go down the leagues and just play for enjoyment because it will be easier.” he said. “It isn’t. I have been fighting my weight for 12 years. I can’t have a burger without putting on half a stone.”
West Brom released Hartson in January - six months before his contract was due to run out. He joined them in June 2006, but despite scoring twice on his debut he found it hard to win a regular place, scoring six goals in his 24 appearances.