Aaron Lennon retires aged 35 as ex-England and Tottenham star reveals none of his options ‘were right for me’

AARON LENNON has announced his retirement from professional football aged 35.

The former England international has been without a club since his contract with Burnley expired in the summer.

And the winger has decided now is the right time to bring the curtain down on his 19-year career.

In an emotional statement, he said: "I have finally decided that the time is right to hang my boots up.

"Having weighed up my options, I didn't feel any were right for me and my young family.

"It has been a very tough decision as football has been my life since probably the age of three and the last 20 years playing professionally at the very top has been amazing.

"I loved every minute of it! Football means so much to me and always will do.

"I don't think I even realised how much until I started considering this retirement, it has been everything and more."

Lennon then paid tribute to those who have guided him throughout his career.

He added: "I just want to say a massive thank you to my loved ones, family and friends who have supported me all the way through this journey.

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"My agent Leon Angel and CAA Base who have also been right there from the start to this very day.

"All the players I've played with, it has been an absolute pleasure.

"The managers, coaching staff and all other members of staff who do all the hard work behind the scenes, some real amazing people at the clubs who I will thank personally and hopefully cross paths again in the future.

"And, of course, the amazing clubs and fans I got to play and represent, including my country.

"I loved each and every one of the clubs and fanbases and I know that doesn't happen for many players so I'm very grateful.

"Now I'm very excited for this next chapter in my life and spending a lot more time with my loved ones.

"There is so much I want to do and give back with all my experience and experiences on and off the pitch and will be doing so in the near future.

"Football world, thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Lennon began his career at Leeds and made 38 appearances for the Whites before he made a £1million move to Tottenham in the summer of 2005.

Lennon spent the bulk of his career at White Hart Lane, scoring 30 goals and providing 79 assists in 364 appearances for Spurs.

After being deemed surplus to requirements by the north Londoners, Lennon joined Everton on an initial loan in the 2014-15 season before penning a permanent deal with the Merseysiders.

Lennon spent three-and-half seasons at Goodison Park before joining Burnley on a two-and-a-half-year contract.

He spent a season in Turkey with Kayserispor before returning to Turf Moor in August for what proved to be his final campaign as a professional.