Earlier today, former Newcastle United left-back Jose Enrique spoke out on the devastating injury that has forced him into early retirement from the game and the Spaniard has since sent a message to NUFC, thanking the ‘amazing’ club and fans for giving him memories he will ‘never forget’.
Enrique arrived on Tyneside 10 years ago, in the summer of 2007, with the then Spain U-21 left-back joining from Villareal for a fee of £6.3m.
He went on the make 127 appearances for the club over his four seasons in the North-East, before earning a move to Liverpool, however injuries began to hamper him during his final three seasons at Anfield, seeing him make just 12 league appearances.
Here’s what the Spaniard has had to say both to NUFC and to all of his fans over the years in a statement released on his early retirement:
thanks a lot.is been a pleasure to play for this amazing club with this amazing fans. i have great memories i will never forget all the best
— José enrique (@Jesanchez3) September 6, 2017
“It comes with a very heavy heart today to announce my retirement from professional football.
“It’s been a very hard decision to take and accept.
“I would of loved to have played more years at my best level if my body would of let me but all good things have to come to an end and more in football.
“I just want to say a huge thanks to all of the fans and clubs who have supported me throughout my career.
“You have been the best!
“I have been blessed to play for some of the best teams in the world, with some of the best players in the world. these memories will stay with me forever.
“Thank you.”
He was a good servant to the club, being one of few who stuck around to help us earn promotion back to the top flight in the 2009/10 season.
His one and only goal for the club was memorable one in the 2009/10 season, where Enrique scored the first and only goal of his United career to secure all three points against promotion rivals Nottingham, edging us tantalisingly close to automatic promotion. St. James’ Park erupted that night.
Just heard that Jose Enrique has retired. This is one moment that I'll not forget. #NUFC pic.twitter.com/JmaVCEa6ew
— Chris NUFC (@Chris_NUFC_) September 6, 2017
Jose was nick-named ‘The Bull’ and for most of his time at Newcastle it was easy to see why. He was an immovable object who wingers so often struggled to take on, as well as him striking up a great partnership down to left with former winger Jonas Gutierrez.
All the best Jose! Thanks for your service and good luck in your future ventures.
