Former Blackburn Rovers and Leeds United goalkeeper Paul Robinson has announced his retirement from professional football, according to Burnley’s official website.
Robinson, 37, had spent the last 18 months at Burnley, making three Premier League appearances for the club last season. However, due to injury, he has decided to hang up his boots. The goalkeeper said:
The goalkeeper said: “Unfortunately, my back problem returned towards the end of last season and has prevented me being ready for the start of the new season. Taking everything into consideration I’ve decided to announce my retirement.
“I have been very fortunate to play the game I love for so many years and make it my career. I intend to take a short time out to spend time with my family and explore the different options available to me. I would like to sincerely thank all my family and friends who have stood by me throughout my playing career.
“I have been very lucky to play for four very special football clubs and my country. I would like to say a huge thank-you to the supporters and staff of everyone as I was able to build a very special relationship with each.”
Robinson began his career with Leeds United in the Premier League, making 119 appearances for the club in all competitions. The goalkeeper also managed to score a goal during his time at Leeds; against Swindon Town in the League Cup. Following Leeds’ relegation to the Championship, Robinson was snapped up by Tottenham Hotspur.
The goalkeeper spent four seasons at Tottenham, playing 175 games. He again managed to score a goal for the club, this time a free-kick from 95 yards. After losing his place in his final season, Robinson left Tottenham for Blackburn Rovers.
He rediscovered his form at Blackburn and quickly became a fan favourite under Sam Allardyce. When Rovers were relegated to the Championship, Robinson stayed before being released in summer 2015.
Blackburn’s local rivals Burnley were Robinson’s next and final club, signing a contract until the end of the season in January 2016.
With 498 club appearances and 41 England caps to his name, Robinson is a highly-respected player who will no doubt get many coaching opportunities if he chooses to take that route. Injuries troubled him in the latter stages of his career but it can’t be denied that, in his prime, Robinson was a quality goalkeeper.
