"Time for the next chapter" - Shwan Jalal announces retirement from football after finishing career at Chesterfield

The 37-year-old has decided to call it a day after 20 years in the game.

He left the Spireites in the summer after his contract expired at the end of June following two seasons with the club.

The stopper was open to staying at the Blues but in the end he was not offered a new contract.

He had been set to hang up his gloves in 2018 but decided to extend his career further when Chesterfield came calling.

“After 20 years I have decided to call time on my playing career,” he posted on social media.

“I want to thank all of the teammates and managers that I’ve had the privilege to work with. Some amazingly talented individuals but, more importantly, good people.”

Jalal, whose favourite memories from his career are no doubt his six years at Bournemouth, joined Town on a two-year deal on a free transfer when Martin Allen was in charge.

He made more than 50 appearances for Chesterfield in his two years at the club.

He was particularly excellent in the second half of last season to help the Spireites avoid relegation.

Jalal, who was born in Iraq, also paid tribute to all of his goalkeeping coaches and his family, saying: “Thank you for being with me all the way and allowing me to achieve my dream of playing professional football. I love you.”

He added: “Time for the next chapter!”