Winterburn hangs up his boots

Nigel Winterburn tonight revealed that the death of his father in April had a part to play in his decision to retire.

The 39-year-old has decided to quit after 17 years of top-flight football with Wimbledon, Arsenal and West Ham and is hoping to become involved in the media.

His best years were undoubtedly spent at Highbury, where he was part of the famously stingy Arsenal back four which claimed league titles in 1989, 1991 and 1998 and a host of cup successes.

Winterburn told Sky Sports News: “At 39 I don’t think I’m capable of playing in the Premier League any longer. I always said I would like to finish at the top.

“My father died in April and that made me realise there is life after football.”