Former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has announced his retirement from football at the age of 34 following the end of his contract with Southampton.
"The first moment I put on my football boots at the age of 10 was the start of a very special journey for me. From playing in the park with my friends to playing in the biggest stadiums in front of huge crowds around the world. The support I've had throughout this time has been incredible in every way and I am truly grateful. I have been on the pitch with many incredible players and we have created so many unforgettable memories.
In 18 fantastic years in the Premier League, there are so many moments that will always be etched in my mind: my early days at Southampton FC, my move to Arsenal where I spent 12 great years and scored over 100 goals. I won the FA Cup and scored in the final match. I had the opportunity to represent England 47 times, attend the 2006 World Cup at the age of just 17, and still hold the record as the youngest ever national team hat-trick scorer," Walcott wrote on his Twitter page.