Former Gambia international forward Cherno Samba has announce his retirement from football to pursue his coaching badges in England.
The striker 29 years-old has been out of action for three years following persistent ankle injuries which he said is the main reason he calls time on his career.
“It is with sadness that I officially announce my retirement as a football player in order to focus on moving into the next chapter of my career, which is to attain my coaching badges”
The striker 29 years-old has been out of action for three years following persistent ankle injuries which he said is the main reason he calls time on his career.
“It is with sadness that I officially announce my retirement as a football player in order to focus on moving into the next chapter of my career, which is to attain my coaching badges”
“The past few years have been difficult for me, I couldn’t get back on the pitch due to persistent ankle injuries and that, is the main reason while I decide to finally call it quits” said Samba.
Samba represented the Scorpions in a five-year spell making his debut off the bench in a 2010 World Cup qualifier against Liberia in Banjul which the host won 3-0 in 2008.
He would go on to make a total of four appearances scoring ones which was in a friendly against the Cartage Eagles of Tunisia on the eve of his 25th birthday in 2010 as the Scorpions won 2-1.
He also represented England at youth level in his early days while starring for the championship side Millwall and was a reported target of Liverpool who had a 1 million pounds bid rejected.
“Ever since I was a kid, all I wanted was to become a Professional Football Player and to play for the England Youth setups until U21 level and representing the Scorpions of The Gambia has been a great joy for me and my family” added Cherno.
The forward was a fans favourite among the Scorpions followers and was accorded a standing ovation when he made his debut against Liberia.
“My greatest appreciation to the fans for being with me on this journey from day one. I cannot thank you enough”.
“Finally, it is with sadness and joy that I bring an end to this fantastic fifteen year career of mine, I am grateful for all the opportunities that the sport brought me” he concluded.
His biggest achievement with The Gambia came off the pitch when he established the Cherno Samba Academy which has produce a number of Gambia international among them is young midfield maestro Sulayman Marreh of Granada FC in the Spanish La Liga.
The Academy team will play next season in the Gambia Football Federation Division One, finishing second behind second division champions Steve Biko last term.
By: Cafonline.com
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