Luke Blewden forced into retirement at the age of 28

LUKE BLEWDEN has confirmed he has been forced into retirement at the age of 28 because he is suffering arthritis in his knee.

The former Tonbridge Angels, Folkestone Invicta, Crawley Down, Sittingbourne, Lewes and Hythe Town striker announced the sad news on his Twitter account this morning.

“One of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make but it’s time to hang up the boots at the age of 28,” said Blewden.

“I’ve been playing in pain for the last few weeks and a scan has shown a lot of knee damage (arthritis and other issues) to the point I need to wear a knee brace for the foreseeable future.

“I’ve also been told to give up football, otherwise I will need a knee replacement before the age of 35.

“I just wanted to say thank you to every club, player, manager and staff I’ve been involved with right through as it’s been amazing and have made some friends for life.

“I’ve played about 500 games in non-league and if you told me that at 14 I wouldn’t have believed you.”