Bradford City promotion-winner and ex-Middlesbrough and Portsmouth man Callum Johnson retires at just 29
Callum Johnson has retired at the age of 29 - less than a year after helping Bradford City seal promotion to League One.
The right-back arrived at Valley Parade in the summer of 2024, making the move from Mansfield Town.
A product of Middlesbrough’s academy, the defender arrived with experience accumulated across spells with the likes of Accrington Stanley, Portsmouth and Ross County.
He was a bit-part player as the Bantams clinched automatic promotion, making 14 appearances for the club before being released at the end of the season.
After a short spell in the National League with Gateshead, Johnson has succumbed to injury problems and decided to hang up his boots.
Callum Johnson confirms retirement
He said: “This isn’t an announcement I ever imagined making at 29 years old. However, those who know me or have followed my journey will know I have suffered from 14 muscle injuries over the last two-and-a-half seasons.
“Although we eventually discovered the cause of the constant muscle injuries, my body is no longer able to continue playing.
“To all of the fans of every club I have played for, whether I was playing 40 games a season in my prime or in recent years doing everything possible to get back fit and showing glimpses on the pitch of what I was capable of, thank you for your support.
To all the players I have shared the dressing room with, I’ve met some top professionals, learnt so much throughout my career and made friendships that will last a lifetime, best of luck with the rest of your careers.
“Thank you to the managers and staff who put their trust in me, I always did everything I could to repay your belief in me on the pitch."
Johnson made a total of 10 appearances for Gateshead, who sit 21st in the National League table.