One-cap former England star, 32, appointed player-manager of Spanish fifth tier side in ‘incredible coup’

FORMER ENGLAND star Steven Caulker has completed a shock transfer to a lower-league Spanish side.

The defender inked a surprise deal with Spanish FIFTH DIVISION side FC Malaga City earlier this week.

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Steven Caulker is the new player-manager of FC Malaga City[/caption]

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The former England defender has inked a player-manager deal with the Spanish fifth-division side[/caption]

The 32-year-old Sierra Leone defender has penned a player-manager deal at the Our Almunecar & Nerja Campus, which the club announced on Christmas Eve.

A statement read: “On a historic day for FC Malaga City, we are beyond proud to announce the signing of former Premier League player as well as England and Sierra Leone international Steven Caulker!

“Following an illustrious playing career including the likes of Tottenham, Liverpool, and Fenerbahce the Premier League veteran has been signed to a Player/Joint Head Coach role.

“And [he] has already met and began to intergrate his influence into the first team squad and will be a huge mentor across the academy from 2024.

“We could not be more excited to have a player/coach of his calibre and experience here with us in Spain.

“This incredible coup is a statement of what the club has achieved and our ambitious plans as we move into our 10-year anniversary!

“Bienvenido a Espana, Steven!”

Footie fans were quick to comment on the shock new chapter of the former Tottenham and Liverpool defender’s career.

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Steven Caulker was most recently plying his trade in The Championship with Wigan[/caption]

One said: “Top Player.”

Another said: “Congratulations legend.”

And another said: “Best wishes bld.”

One remarked: “Congratulations.”

Another chimed in: “Congratulations best of wishes in your new club.”

Caulker was a free agent prior to inking his deal with Malaga City, who are in 13th place in the Tercera Division table.

He was most recently plying his trade in the Championship with Wigan Athletic, who handed him a six-month contract in January.

Caulker and his Malaga City troops will be back in action on Sunday week, travelling to the Municipal Juan Rojas to take on UD Almeria B.