Former Premier League defender announces retirement in emotional post after failing to recover from horror leg break

FORMER Premier League star Chris Basham has announced his retirement after failing to recover from a horror injury.

The versatile defender, 36, has not kicked a ball since breaking his leg in Sheffield United’s clash with Fulham last October.

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Basham’s ankle gave way in a freak movement as he attempted to cross the ball.

And he received emergency treatment from medics, including oxygen, while still on the field.

Basham had hoped to recover in time for the start of United’s new Championship campaign.

However, his ankle has still not fully healed, leading to the expiration of his Blades contract.

And Basham has now called it a day in an emotional social media post.

It read: “This is a post that I think many knew was coming, but it has been easier to accept after the past few months as I still recover from the injury last October at Craven Cottage.

“I would like to thank everyone who has made my career in the game a special one including those that taught me important lessons. 

“The highs and lows of football since being a teenager, getting released and then having the drive, along with opportunities, and belief from another club to go again.

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“Newcastle United give me the pedigree, the coaching and the chance to be able to play with the best players of my year. They gave me the structure and the mindset of being a player. 

“They taught me the sacrifices that I would have to make in order to have any chance of a successful career in the game.

“Bolton Wanderers, who nurtured me and gave me the opportunity that I dreamed of from being a young lad. An appearance in the Premier League, and a Premier League goal. 

“To be part of a team full of footballing icons, and train along side with, was incredibly surreal, and one in the past that I could only imagine. 

“But this experience gave me so much determination, which little did I know at the time would be monumental for my future achievements.

“Blackpool FC, for believing in me to be part of a working culture and team. I was taught the importance of team work at this club. 

“The dressing room was filled with hard working lads and staff that had experienced promotions. Everything they did emphasised the importance of working together as a team and becoming a unity.

“Sheffield United, wow, a club that I never expected to play for. A club that I quickly fell in love with and for ten years. 

“I found the real me as a footballer here, they inspired me and pushed me as a player which brought on a whole new drive and passion for the game, giving me my best years of football. 

“I gave everything to the club and got everything back, from the staff at the club, to the amazing fans that will forever be in my heart and most of all the successes, and the fantastic memories that came with it. Thank you!”

Various former teammates paid tribute to Basham online.

Callum Robinson said: “Congratulations Bash on your amazing career. What a player and an even better teammate.”

Tommy Doyle declared: “Legend of the game! All the best Bash.”

Conor Hourihane noted: “Incredible career, wishing you all the very best moving forward.”

Former club Sheffield United added: “Congratulations on an outstanding career.”

Basham started his career in Newcastle’s academy before switching to Bolton’s youth system in 2006.

After loans at Stafford Rangers and Rochdale, he made his Premier League debut for the Trotters in 2008.

21 games and two years later, Basham secured a move to Blackpool.

He played 94 times in four years before dropping to League One with Sheffield United.

Basham became a stalwart at the club, featuring 394 times and helping them to Premier League promotion on two separate occasions.

He was also crowned the Blades’ Player of the Year in 2020.