Former England captain and Manchester City defender Steph Houghton has announced she will retire at the end of the current Women’s Super League season.
Houghton, 35, amassed 121 caps for England and was named captain in 2014. She led the team to a historic bronze medal at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, inspiring a generation of female footballers globally.
"Taking the decision to retire is such a difficult thing to do. Whilst age comes to every player, it makes it no easier having to say the words out loud. Football has been my life, my passion, and I have loved the career I have had," Houghton said in a statement posted on social media.
Beginning her career with Sunderland, Houghton went on to play for Leeds United and Arsenal before joining Manchester City in 2014. Over the past decade with City, she made nearly 150 league appearances, becoming a cornerstone of the club’s success in women’s football.
"It has been an honor and a privilege to represent Sunderland, Leeds Utd, Arsenal and to have been on the incredible journey that I have been on with Manchester City over the past ten years," she reflected.
Houghton’s leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on the sport. "I hope that I leave the game in a better place than when I started and that I have contributed in some small way to giving the girls of tomorrow a better future in football," she added.
Her retirement marks the end of an era, but her legacy continues to inspire young athletes worldwide, including in Asia, where women’s football is rapidly growing. Houghton’s career serves as a testament to the impact one player can have on the global stage.
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Former England captain and Man City defender Houghton to retire
cgtn.com
