Aztex Eddie Johnson Retires from Professional Soccer

CplDaniel · Apr 22, 2012

http://www.portlandtimbers.com/news/2012/04/timbers-forward-eddie-johnson-announces-retirement

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland Timbers forward Eddie Johnson today announced his retirement from professional soccer. Johnson retires after a 10-year professional career, playing for clubs in England and the United States.

Photo: Hanna Gustin

Johnson, 27, was one of the Timbers’ first MLS players, signing with the club on Oct. 19, 2010. He appeared in seven league matches and scored a goal against Toronto FC during Portland’s inaugural MLS season in 2011. Johnson’s time with Portland was limited by a series of injuries over the past two seasons.
“I very much appreciate all the help and support I’ve received from everyone with the club,” said Johnson. “It’s never an easy decision to retire, but I feel great about what I was able to accomplish, the connections I made in the game, and the opportunities it presented. My top priorities are my health and my young family, and I am looking forward to my future.”
Johnson has been out since February after sustaining a third concussion.
“On behalf of everyone involved with the club, I would like to thank Eddie for his time with us,” said Gavin Wilkinson, Timbers general manager. “We understand and respect his difficult decision and wish Eddie and his family all the best.”
FLASHBACK: Johnson scores against TFC

A native of Chester, England, Johnson began his professional career at age 17 with famed English side Manchester United, making his debut with the first team during the 2003-04 season. In total, he played in 133 league games over seven seasons in Europe, which included time with English sides Coventry City (2004-05) and Crewe Alexandra (2005-06) on loan, Bradford City FC (2006-08) and his hometown club Chester City FC (2008-09).
Johnson made the move to the United States in 2009, joining the second-division Austin Aztex. He became the Aztex’s all-time leading scorer after just two seasons with the club, compiling 20 goals and eight assists in 50 matches. Johnson finished the 2010 season as the second-leading scorer in the USSF Divison-2 Pro League with 14 goals and was named to the league’s Best XI that season. He was also an all-league selection for the Aztex after his first season with the club in 2009.
Prior to his professional career, Johnson helped Manchester United’s youth side claim the 2002-03 Youth FA Cup and was a member of England’s youth national team system from the U-16 to U-20 levels.
Click to expand...

-ATX- · Apr 25, 2012

Here is a nice interview where EJ discusses his decision and his future.

http://www.portlandtimbers.com/video/2012/04/24/interview-eddie-johnson

VioletCrown · Apr 26, 2012

Hope he lands on his feet. From the sounds of it, he ain't coming back here.

pomintex · Apr 26, 2012

Yes tough luck indeed . I wonder what he'll do now for the future, seems like he's got something lined up maybe coaching.... Timbers, he didn't say?. He'll need good health insurance for sure whatever he does.

Do I get the impression some of the 'old school' on here not too enthused with this new PDL set up?

Scooter Pete · Apr 26, 2012

pomintex said: ↑

Do I get the impression some of the 'old school' on here not too enthused with this new PDL set up?
Click to expand...

I can't speak for everyone, but as one of the older school I would say that most of us are more enthused than ever. As far as I can tell David Markley the owner is doing his best to demonstrate that the three sides of the triangle for him are his players, his fans, and Austin.

What we're not enthused about is the constant Big Soccer reminder of the past at the top of the page, which I know is the reason you'll find some of us chatting on other boards.

PDL is where we started four years ago... it's far far better than not having a team.

pomintex · Apr 26, 2012

Yes agree with you there. Maybe 'set up' was the wrong word. Looks to be a very interesting season and for the future who knows ?