Ex-Portsmouth and Bradford City footballer forced to retire at 29 | OneFootball

Former Portsmouth and Bradford City defender Callum Johnson has called time on his playing career due to a number of injury problems.

Both Bradford City and Portsmouth have had contrasting seasons, with both clubs still having plenty to play for heading into the final few games of the 2025/26 campaign.

The Bantams are currently in the mix to challenge for promotion into the Championship this term, whilst Portsmouth are finding it tough to find a much-needed three points in the battle to avoid relegation into League One.

Plenty of players have come and gone at both clubs over the years, with some making more of an impact than others, whilst others have had their time disrupted through injury.

An injury-hit career called to a halt

One of those to fall into the injury category is Callum Johnson, who spent two years with Portsmouth, and one year with Bradford City.

The 29-year-old has recently announced his retirement from his playing career due to injury whilst at National League club, Gateshead.

The full-back only signed for Gateshead at the start of the 2025/26 season, and went on to make nine appearances for the club, before having to call time on his career.

Johnson's career was hampered with injuries, which has seen him retire earlier than originally planned. He came through the youth ranks at Middlesbrough, although he wasn't able to force his way into the senior team.

That saw Johnson sign for Accrington Stanley, where he played over 100 games, in what proved to be the most of his playing career out of all the clubs he featured for.

He also went on to feature for Ross County, Fleetwood Town, and Mansfield Town during his professional career, although spells with all of those clubs were brief, and didn't last longer than a single season.

Johnson sends emotional message

In a joint statement from Johnson and Gateshead, the defender thanked all his previous clubs for their support, as well as all the players he's played alongside during his career.

"This isn’t an announcement I ever imagined making at 29 years old. However, those who know me or have followed my journey will know I have suffered from 14 muscle injuries over the last two and a half seasons.

"Although we eventually discovered the cause of the constant muscle injuries, my body is no longer able to continue playing.

"To all of the fans of every club I have played for, whether I was playing 40 games a season in my prime or in recent years doing everything possible to get back fit and showing glimpses on the pitch of what I was capable of, thank you for your support.

"To all the players I have shared the dressing room with, I’ve met some top professionals, learnt so much throughout my career and made friendships that will last a lifetime, best of luck with the rest of your careers.

"Thank you to the managers and staff who put their trust in me, I always did everything I could to repay your belief in me on the pitch."