Forgotten Premier League title winner retires with cryptic message and says ‘I’ll shed more light at end of season’

9 months ago 61

PREMIER LEAGUE winner Shinji Okazaki has announced his retirement – after battling against a spate of injuries.

The Japan striker starred in Leicester‘s shock title triumph in 2016.

Shinji Okazaki will retire at the end of the season[/caption]

He won the Premier League with Leicester City[/caption]

A £7million buy from Mainz the previous year, he went on to score 19 goals in 137 Foxes games across four seasons.

But the frontman’s current campaign has been hit by a series of fitness woes.

The 119-cap international bade an emotional farewell on Sint Truiden’s website.

Okazaki said: “I have decided to finish my playing career at the end of the season.

“I have always given my all, but as a sportsman you have to listen to what your body tells you.

“These days I am battling against my physical limitations.

“I will do all I can in the remaining weeks to get fit, so I can contribute to the team and say goodbye on the pitch.

“I want to be open about my decision for everyone who has always supported me. That is why I’m announcing it now.

“I will of course gladly shed more light on it at the end of the season. Until then I’ll focus 100 per cent on my football.”

Sint Truiden sporting director Andre Pinto said: “We have a young squad this season.

“Shinji has been an experienced guide, and an example of professionalism, for our young players to copy.

“We respect his decision, and hope he can finish the season in style.”

Okazaki made 39 appearances, scoring six goals, as Claudio Ranieri‘s side defied 5,000-1 odds to lift the 2016 crown.

He went on to win a Spanish second division title with Huesca in 2020.