Thomas Hitzlsperger retires from professional football

Former West Ham United and Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31, following a series of unexpected injuries which has made him lose much of his playing time throughout his career. 

Hitzlsperger,who spent the major part of last season on loan with Everton on a short term deal, failed to make the most out of the opportunity as he made just nine appearances for the Toffees in all competitions. 

Hitzlsperger earned the nickname 'Der Hammer', mainly for his extreme ability to strike the ball from range with power. In spite of receiving offers from various clubs across Europe, the talented midfielder has decided to hang up his boots as he admitted that he could not play through the pain barrier.

He told Suddeutschen Zeitung: "I've been sure about it for a few days. I won't be playing anymore. 

Hitzlsperger had also expressed that his body was giving the "appropriate signals" that he could not cope with football at the top level.


He said : "I think it's enough. I've noticed, I need something else."

Hitzlsperger earned an impressive 52 caps for the German national side which included appearances at the World Cup and European Championships.