TRENDING NEWS: Southampton legend supports former player’s coaching career

There is no “one size fits all” retirement plan; retirement is a very personal decision.

Every athlete is aware that there will come a day when they must give up.

I was really appreciative that I had the option to choose; perhaps I could have continued to play for a little while longer.

That would have required moving the family to a new club. The choice was obvious to me because I didn’t want to do it.

However, for those who are forced to retire due to illness or injury, this isn’t always the case.

I understand that it is a challenging concept for some individuals to accept; in fact, some find the process extremely challenging.

It’s hard to lose that dressing room fraternity and togetherness.

You also lose the one thing that, up until that moment, has centered your life.

The first novelty of living a life unrestricted by the football schedule comes when you first retire.

You may, for instance, take a vacation during the season.

It was strange getting used to seeing people reading a newspaper with football reports on the back page.

While facing certain inconveniences, I wouldn’t categorize them as downsides, given the numerous positives in what we do.

Reflecting on my past, I realize I should have taken some time away from the game.

Though I am deeply thankful to Southampton for the opportunity, transitioning directly into coaching posed a significant challenge.

I went from being part of the team one morning to preparing with the coaching staff the next.

It has taken me years to truly find joy in my current profession.

From a happiness standpoint, I now feel the most fulfilled since my retirement.

Discovering the next chapter can be daunting for most players, as it involves rediscovering oneself.

That’s why I’m keenly observing Steven’s next steps in life.

Throughout his esteemed playing career, Steven exemplified professionalism both on and off the field, earning the title of legend at many of his former clubs, including Saints.

Though I never played alongside him, everyone I’ve spoken to has spoken highly of him.

His achievements in the game, especially his record number of caps for a British player, speak volumes.

Knowing him personally, I’ve enjoyed the time spent with him.

While it’s uncertain if coaching is in his immediate plans, he could be a successful coach based on his experience as Rangers’ interim boss, and there are reports linking him to a role in the Northern Ireland setup.

In a football sense, he has much to offer, but staying in the game isn’t for everyone.

Family time post-retirement is crucial, and diving back into coaching might limit that.

On a personal note, I’m thrilled to learn that my daughter Kenzie and her husband Lewis are expecting their first child.

Welcoming another grandchild into the family is truly exciting for Karen and me.