Tributes from Super Eagles players poured in for Carl Ikeme on Friday after the Nigeria international and Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper announced his retirement from football, reports Completesportsnigeria.com.
Ikeme called time on his football career after consulting medical experts following his battle against acute leukaemia.
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The 32 year old had in July revealed that he was in “complete remission” after “a tough year and intense chemotherapy”.
Ikeme who kept six clean sheets in ten games for Nigeria and never lost a competitive game while in action for the Super Eagles posted a statement on Instagram thanking everyone: “After advice from the doctors I have taken the decision to retire.
“It’s not a sad day for me but one to look back with fondness and joy for being able to live my dream. I just want to thank everyone at @wolves for their support over the years. We have rode the good and bad times together, an I’m great-full to of been a part of the clubs history. I’m looking forward to catching up with everyone again soon and being back around the club and city!! Thank You!!!
“We are going to miss you, wish you luck brother 🙏🙏🙏
🦅,” Leicester City forward, Ahmed Musa, wrote on Instagram.
Chelsea defender, Kenneth Omeruo also admitted he would have loved to play more with the 32 year old who he regarded as a legend.
“I would have love to play with you more my bro @carlikeme ..But am happy you will be with us in good health.. You are a legend bro.. and am sure Nigerians will miss seeing you in the national team.. Good luck my brother and like u said, it’s not a sad day.. ❤️ where is the retirement party do 😬🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾,”Omeruo wrote also on Instagram.
Super Eagles vice-captain Ogenyi Onazi also wrote: “Thank God for your life and your health, this is most important bro ❤️❤️🙏🏾🙏🏾 @carlikeme.”
Daniel Akpeyi who was one of the Super Eagles goalkeepers to the 2018 FIFA World Cup also wrote: “Thank God you got your life back bro, better things ahead.”
John Ogu added: “Thank God for restoring back you Health. And Good luck with your next Chapter. ❤️❤️❤️.”
Victor Anichebe wrote in response to Ikeme’s post on Instagram: “One door closes and another opens. Good Luck with your next chapter. God bless.”
Ikeme’s former coach at Wolves Walter Zenga also wishes him well in his retirement.
“@carlikeme, was a big pleasure for me to have you in my time at @wolves … I wish for you all the best .. my thoughts always with you… big hug 🤗 #onceawolfalwaysawolf WZ,” Zenga wrote via his handle on Instagram walterzenga_official.
