Seaman hangs up his gloves

Former England goalkeeper David Seaman has announced his retirement after more than 20 years in football. The 40-year-old damaged a shoulder on Saturday in what turned out to be his final game for Manchester City FC, who have signed England goalkeeper David James from West Ham United FC as his replacement.

'Difficult decision'
Seaman, who won 75 England caps and played over 1,000 times for club and country, joined City at the start of the season after spending most of his career with Arsenal FC but has been plagued by a recurring shoulder injury. He said: "I have reached this difficult decision after much discussion with my family and those in the game whose views I respect.

'Fantastic career'
"It has become clear to me that this type of injury will not quickly disappear and I think now would be a good time to hang up my boots, rather than at the end of the season as planned. I believe I have had a fantastic career playing at the highest level. I am looking forward to getting the shoulder better in order to explore potential coaching opportunities."

'Safe hands'
Seaman's last match was City's 4-2 defeat at Portsmouth FC, where he was substituted after only 13 minutes. He is being replaced by James, his England successor. "After deciding to retire it was a pleasure to recommend David James - so I know the position is in safe hands," Seaman said. 
 
Arsenal honours
Seaman reached the end of his Arsenal contract last season after winning three league titles, four FA Cups and the European Cup Winners' Cup with the London club. He was made captain for the day in his last game for the club when Arsenal beat Southampton FC 1-0 in the FA Cup final last May. He earned an MBE for his performances for England in the 1996 UEFA European Championship in which England reached the semi-finals.

'Terrific news'
The 33-year-old James has joined City for a €2.9m fee and has signed a two-and-a-half year contract. He is likely to make his debut against Blackburn Rovers FC on Saturday after passing a medical today. "David James is a tremendous acquisition," City manager Kevin Keegan said. "We have been looking to strengthen the goalkeeping position and to secure the England No1 is terrific news."