Tom Cleverley Retires from Professional Football at 33
Tom Cleverley, former England midfielder, has retired from professional football aged 33 due to injuries. He had played for Watford in the Championship and had earned 13 senior caps for England. He had a long career with Manchester United, Leicester, Wigan, Aston Villa, and Everton.
Watford Confirms Retirement
Watford confirmed Cleverley’s retirement on Twitter, adding that “some exciting news will soon be announced jointly by the club and Tom.” Chairman and CEO Scott Duxbury praised Cleverley’s work ethic and commitment to the team, saying “I can’t speak highly enough about Tom as a person, a player and our captain. Tom is the type of professional all clubs would be delighted to have in their team.”
Injuries Lead to Retirement
Cleverley sustained an Achilles tendon injury at the start of the 2022-23 season before a thigh problem in February. Despite his best efforts to make a comeback, the injuries proved too much and he was forced to retire.
Career Highlights
Cleverley had a successful career, most notably being part of the Manchester United team which won the Premier League in 2012-13. He made 79 appearances for United and had a series of loan spells away from Old Trafford – including at Watford in 2009-10 – before joining Everton permanently in 2015. Cleverley returned to Watford in January 2017 and made 146 appearances in his second spell, including the 2019 FA Cup final defeat by Manchester City.
Conclusion
Tom Cleverley had a successful career in professional football, but unfortunately his injuries have forced him to retire at 33. His work ethic and commitment to the team were praised by Watford Chairman and CEO Scott Duxbury. He will be remembered for his time at Manchester United and his appearances in the 2019 FA Cup final.