Mustapha Carayol ends his playing career aged 38

Former Middlesbrough favourite Mustapha Carayol has ended his playing career, aged 38.

Just weeks after returning to the Riverside to play in the Legacy Game, the winger announced his retirement in a statement on his social media accounts.

He wrote: “From where it all began at the Damiola Taylor centre in Peckham to a 20-year career in football, what a journey it’s been.

“After two decades, this chapter of my life has finally come to an end. I’ve learned so much along the way and will forever be grateful for everything football has given me.

“I got to live my dream of playing for my country. I wish I’d done it earlier, but standing out there on the pitch, my family in the stands and Gambians cheering my name, is something dreams are made of.

“To every team-mate and staff member I’ve shared a changing room, a training pitch or a bus journey with, you’ve all been part of this story.

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“To my family, none of this happens without you. Your love and support carried me every step of the way.

“And to my son, getting to play with you watching was always my dream. I’m so grateful it came true.

“Above all, I’m grateful to be walking away from the game healthy, happy and proud of everything I’ve experienced. It’s been a journey I’ll never forget.”

Carayol spent four years at Middlesbrough, though the final 18 months of his contract were spent out on loan. He made 54 appearances in total, scoring 12 goals.

Signed from Bristol Rovers in 2012, he suffered an ACL injury towards the end of his second season, which ruled him out for much of the 2014-15 season.

After returning, he joined Brighton on loan to get some game-time, and then had loan spells at Huddersfield Town and Leeds United in the following season before his Boro deal was terminated by mutual agreement.

That allowed the winger to join Nottingham Forest, while he also had spells at Ipswich, Gillingham, Burton and Exeter, as well as a season in Cyprus with Apollon Limassol where he would play Europa League football.

With his playing days over, the 38-year-old already knows his next steps, explaining in his statement how he plans to stay in the game.

He said: “Although my playing days are over, my journey in football continues. I’ve always had a passion for helping younger players, whether that’s sharing advice or experiences in the changing room.

“Now, I’m looking forward to taking that passion into football agency, helping players navigate their careers and prepare for life beyond the game.”