Worksop Town have announced that former Bradford City, Sheffield United, and Grimsby Town striker James Hanson has officially retired from professional football. The 36-year-old, who had an extensive career in the Football League, has decided to hang up his boots, marking the end of his playing career.
Hailing from Bradford, James Hanson compiled an impressive record over the course of his career, making a total of 627 appearances across various competitions and showcasing his goal-scoring prowess with a tally of 167 goals.
After catching their eye with his non-league football performances at Guiseley, Bradford City signed James Hanson in 2009, marking the start of his professional football career. Hanson became a vital member of the Valley Parade team over the course of eight seasons, appearing in 335 games and scoring 91 goals for the Bantams.
He was instrumental in Bradford’s 2013 promotion to League One under Phil Parkinson’s leadership while he was a player. He also contributed to the team’s trip to the League Cup final that year, even though they lost to Swansea City at Wembley in the end.
Through the Worksop website, Hanson gave his explanation for retiring, saying, “I have been ready for the last three or four months.” I want to devote my time to my kids because they are growing up and participating in activities on the weekends, and I have struggled with ailments this season.
After deciding to join Sheffield United in January 2017, Hanson played for the Blades for a year and a half, making 15 appearances and scoring one.
The Blades will never forget the part he played in the second half of the 2016–17 season, enabling Sheffield United win League One, despite the fact he only made a few appearances for the team and only scored once.
