Wales international football star Joe Allen announces retirement

The Carmarthen-born midfielder featured in Wales’ historic World Cup games in Qatar in 2022.

Raised in Narberth, Welsh speaker Allen started his playing career in local team Tenby, aged 10.

He started his professional career at Swansea City, aged just 16, in January 2007 and stayed with the team for 6 years, including two rounds of promotion to the Championship and Premier League.

After a playing career that has taken him to Liverpool and Stoke, he signed a new 2 year deal returning to the Swans on 8 July 2022.

Allen was called up for the Wales squad shortly after receiving his first professional contract for Swansea in 2007, for a friendly under-21 match against Sweden. He scored the winning goal in a 4-3 victory.

He made his senior Wales team debut in 2009 coming on as a substitute in a friendly match against Estonia played in Llanelli.

Announcing his retirement from international football in a statement through the Football Association of Wales (FAW), Allen said: “Playing for Wales has been a great passion and love in my life, I have been extremely fortunate.

“I have shared this journey with incredible people…my family, teammates, staff and fans have made it special and I’m hugely grateful to you all.

“Our nation’s support is inspiring, and it has given me immense pride to wear the shirt…so many unforgettable experiences.

“Unfortunately, time and injuries take their toll and so it’s time for me to make way for our next generation. The future of Welsh football is bright.

“All the best,

“Joe.”

Joe Allen’s announcement comes just one month after fellow Welsh international Gareth Bale’s retirement announcement.

(Lead image: Getty Images / Julian Finney)