Why Aston Villa star Lucy Staniforth has decided to retire | OneFootball

England Women Training Session

BURTON UPON TRENT, ENGLAND – JUNE 13: Lucy Staniforth of England during an England Women Training Session at St George’s Park on June 13, 2022 in Burton upon Trent, England. (Photo by Charlotte Tattersall/Getty Images)

Aston Villa’s Lucy Staniforth has confirmed that she will be retiring at the end of the season.

Now 33, she joined the club in January 2023 after spells at Manchester United, Birmingham City, Sunderland, Liverpool, Bristol Academy and Lincoln.

She was also part of the England squad at the 2019 Women’s World Cup in France – with that recognition coming after she had been forced out of the game for nearly three years due to two consecutive anterior cruciate ligament injuries.

She has struggled with more injury setbacks in recent years – with an ankle problem currently keeping her out of action.

She told BBC Sport that she thought the prospect of retirement was “really exciting”, adding: “I’m really comfortable with the decision. It’s been really cool to take the football lens off and be excited for me, as a person, moving into the big, wide world.

“I just feel really at ease with it. I’m super-content with my career and everything that I’ve overcome and achieved.”

“Lucy Staniforth will be greatly missed”

England coach Sarina Wiegman said in a statement: “Lucy’s contribution to the game deserves recognition, and she can be very proud of everything she has achieved.

“Her journey reflects her determination and passion for the game. She played at the highest level both internationally and domestically, and those achievements will stay with her long after she steps away from the pitch.

“Since I have known Lucy, she always approached her role with professionalism and the right values, and she was a positive presence around the squad, particularly ahead of EURO 2022 and the World Cup in 2023. I look forward to celebrating her at a future home game and we all wish her every success in her next chapter.”

Marisa Ewers, Villa’s director of women’s football, said in a statement to the club’s official website: “Having played alongside Stan, I know the qualities she brings both as a player and a person.

“She has been a valued part of the group during her time at Villa and while she will be greatly missed around the club, we wish her all the very best for the future.”

Aston Villa have said they will celebrate Staniforth’s career this weekend at Villa Park, when they host Arsenal.