Former Man Utd defender famous for knocking out Wayne Rooney retires aged 37 after final spell in League Two
A FORMER Manchester United defender – famous for knocking out Wayne Rooney – has retired at the age of 37.
Phil Bardsley called time on a 20-year playing career after injuries limited him to just six league outings in the past three seasons.
He spent the second half of the campaign at Stockport County, using the first part to recover from a long-term setback.
But after just two games for the League Two side, who lost to Carlisle on penalties in the playoff final, Bardsley has decided to hang up his boots for good.
The 13-time Scotland right-back started his football adventure at United, joining their academy in 1993.
A decade later, Bardsley made his first-team debut and clocked up 18 games before starring at Sunderland, Stoke and Burnley.
Eight years ago, the defender hit headlines for decking pal Rooney during a friendly boxing bout on a night out.
SunSport exclusively revealed the video of Red Devils legend Roo lying unconscious on his kitchen floor after being hit by Bardsley.
His then-boss Louis van Gaal was left incensed by the bizarre collision.
But there were no hard feelings between the pair, with Rooney even exploring the chance to sign Bardsley at former club Derby.
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During his time at United, Bardsley enjoyed loan spells at Royal Antwerp, Burnley, Rangers, Aston Villa and Sheffield United.
Sunderland came calling in 2008 with a permanent offer, and Bardsley went on to become a fan favourite with 200 top-flight appearances.
He then joined Stoke in 2014 and stayed for three years, playing 63 times in the process.
Bardsley’s last hurrah in the Premier League came with Burnley, who he made 71 appearances for before his deal expired last summer.
Reflecting on his infamous bout with Rooney, Bardsley said three years ago: “We’re getting ready for when we retire – we’re just negotiating with Eddie Hearn! I want it at MGM in Vegas or New York!
“But yeah, we used to knock f*** out of each other all the time – not necessarily me at his house but in terms of him sparring people. We’re just normal kids from an estate.”
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