'Der Hammer' Retires

It has been confirmed that ex West Ham and Germany international, Thomas Hitzlsperger has retired from football at the age of 31. 'Der Hammer' started his career off with Midlands club Aston Villa where he made a name for himself after scoring spectacular long efforts, something that became a trademark.

West Ham will remember Hitzlsperger for his debut goal against Burnley in the FA.Cup, and although his time in East London was dominated by injury he made a big impact scoring 3 goals in all competitions in just under a dozen appearances for the club. Most recently Thomas played for Everton and back in his home country Germany for Wolfsburg, both spells were unconvincing.

I was disappointed when Hitz left us, I felt he still had much to offer the club and dropping down a league to play in the Championship wouldn't have done his career any harm, after receiving offers to carry on playing he felt now was the right time to call it a day; after many transfers and frequent injury problems.

I wish Thomas Hitzlsperger all the best for the future.