FORMER Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew has retired from football aged 37 concluding an impressive 18-year professional journey, he says.

Mulgrew has had spells at eight clubs throughout his illustrious career. However, his time at Celtic stands out, where he clinched seven significant trophies.

Starting his journey with Celtic’s youth academy, Mulgrew was briefly loaned to Dundee United. His potential caught the attention of Wolves, and he moved south even before making a senior appearance for the Bhoys. However, injuries interrupted his progression in the Midlands, and after a stint at Southend United, he returned to Scottish shores in 2008, joining Aberdeen.

His consistent displays for Aberdeen earned him a return to Celtic, where he became Neil Lennon’s inaugural signing. During his six-year spell in Glasgow, Mulgrew contributed to five consecutive league victories and two Scottish Cup wins, while also marking his presence on the international stage.

When his contract with Celtic concluded in 2016, he ventured to Blackburn Rovers. Over the years, he clocked in over 100 appearances for Blackburn, played pivotal roles in their promotion efforts, and later had loan spells at Wigan Athletic and Fleetwood Town.

His experience was tapped into by Dundee United two years ago, but he departed this summer following the team’s drop from the Premiership.

Since leaving the Arabs, he’s quite notably stepped up his media roles, appearing as pundit on BBC, Clyde 1 SSB and Open Goal.

Taking to Social Media, Mulgrew confirmed his retirement. He wrote:

“Today I’m retiring from playing professional football.

“It’s not an easy decision as playing football is all I’ve known. Firstly I’d like to thank my family and friends for all your support, belief, loyalty and love you have given me over the last 21 years. You all had to make sacrifices along with me to follow my dream.

“Thank you to all eight clubs I played for, the Scotland national team I played 44 times for, I’m grateful for all that I’ve learned and the life I’ve been able to create because of them.

“My memories are priceless.

“I’ve played with and against some great players some of whom I’m lucky to call friends.

“I’ve been part of some great changing rooms which has made me realise it is essential for success.

“Football is nothing without fans and I’m grateful for the experiences and support you gave me through the highs and the lows.

“I am excited for what tomorrow brings, to new beginnings.”

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We wish Charlie Mulgrew the best in his future endeavours!