JOE LEDLEY was among the first of Victor Wanyama’s former Celtic team-mates to send his best wishes after the 34-year-old powerhouse announced his retirement yesterday.
The Kenyan international has broken the news he is hanging up his boots and his one-time midfield partner Ledley wrote on social media: “Wishing Victor Wanyama all the very best.
“Congratulations on a fantastic career, warrior.”
HEADS, I WIN…Victor Wanyama thumps Celtic into the lead in their memorable 2-1 Champions League triumph over Barcelona at Parkhead in November 2012.
Wanyama posted on his Instagram account: “Today I announce my retirement from football.
“Four different countries.
“Six different clubs.
“A boy from Muthurwa with a big dream, carrying a nation’s pride every time I stepped onto the pitch.
“To my family, friends, agent, the fans, and the coaching staff that helped me throughtout my career.
“Thank you for walking this journey with me.
“I now take my step into coaching where I will be completing my UEFA A Licence this year.”
Wanyama became an instant favourite with the Celtic support during a two-year stint at the club following his bargain £900,000 arrival from Belgian side SC Beerschot in July 2011.
COME IN, NUMBER 67…Victor Wanyama on the ball.
The giant middle-of-the-park performer wore the number 67 to honour the year the Hoops conquered Europe with their historic 2-1 win over Inter Milan on May 25 in Lisbon.
One of the highlights of Wanyama’s career in Glasgow was his towering header in the team’s memorable 2-1 Champions League victory at Parkhead in November 2012.
After winning two successive titles and a Scottish Cup, he left the club in July the following year in a record £12.5million switch to Southampton.
Wanyama moved to Spurs in an £11million deal in June 2016, the second time Mauricio Pochettino had recruited the uncompromising ball-winner.
THREE CHEERS…Victor Wanyama, Miku and Efe Ambrose celebrate against Barcelona.
Four years later, he shifted to MLS outfit CF Montreal before bringing down the curtain on his career with a short stint at Dunfermline last year where he reunited with his former Celtic gaffer Neil Lennon.
Unfortunately, Wanyama’s brief spell in Fife didn’t get off to the best of starts when he was red-carded for a handball on his debut, a 3-0 loss to Ayr United.
Celtic were also quick to pay tribute to their former player, writing: “Wishing you all the best, Victor!”
The CQN family would also like to thank for all the happy memories: “Cheers, Big Man.”
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