Former Wolves striker Sam Vokes has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a career that spanned over 750 club appearances and 64 international caps for Wales.
Promotion success at Molineux
Vokes joined Wolves in 2008 and played a key role in the club's promotion to the Premier League. Although he made a handful of top-flight appearances for the club, much of his time at Molineux was spent on loan away from the club.
Burnley and beyond
After leaving Wolves, Vokes moved to Burnley, where he spent seven seasons and helped establish the Clarets as a Premier League side. His later career included spells at Stoke City, Wycombe Wanderers, and most recently Gillingham, where he will play his final match this Saturday.
International heroics
On the international stage, Vokes earned 64 caps for Wales and was a key figure in their memorable run to the semi-finals of Euro 2016.
Emotional farewell
Announcing his retirement on social media, Vokes said: "It's been 20 years since my debut and after 750 appearances, including 64 caps for Wales, this Saturday's match at Gillingham will be my last. I feel now is the right time to retire from a career I have absolutely loved."
He added: "I remember watching my team, the Saints, down at The Dell, dreaming of one day making just one appearance in professional football. Never did I dream I would be fortunate enough to have played across all four divisions and represent some amazing clubs."
Vokes also reflected on his time with Wales: "Sharing the Welsh dressing room with all the amazing players, managers, coaches and staff members was a privilege. To have had the chance to go on the unbelievable journey with Wales, from some of the tough times we faced to reaching the heights of 2016 and also having the chance to play football all over the world representing Cymru is something I'll never forget."
