West Ham will benefit from Danny Gabbidon’s decision to retire
Published:Danny Gabbidon has dealt a blow to Wales boss Brian Flynn by ruling himself out of ever representing his country again.
The 31-year-old had been named in Brian Flynn’s first ever senior squad, but the West Ham defender announced his retirement through the Football Association of Wales on Monday afternoon.
Gabbidon said: “After nine fantastic years of playing international football for Wales during which I had the honour and privilege of captaining my country, after long consideration, I have decided to retire from international duty.”
The defender hasn’t featured for Wales since last November due to injury problems and whilst Wales will miss his Premier League experience, his troubles have meant that Gabbidon has only played a bit-part role for Wales over the years.
Flynn will look to partner James Collins with Ashley Williams or Lewin Nyatanga as Wales’ new manager looks for his first win – Wales are 13/8 to beat Bulgaria in Cardiff.
Gabbidon didn’t give a reason for his retirement but he is in the final year of his contract and has already declared the importance of this West Ham season as Avram Grant looks to guide the side away from the relegation zone.
Gabbidon was West Ham’s player of the year in the 2005/06 Premier League season but has been plagued with injuries meaning he has only featured in 75 West Ham games since 2005.
Avram Grant has deployed Gabbidon at left-back this season and has been impressed with the form of the defender as Gabbidon searches for a new contract.
Less games means less chances for Gabbidon to get injured and whilst Wales will miss him, Avram Grant will want to utilise him as West Ham try to avoid relegation – they are 11/8 to be relegated.
Blackpool are the 1/2 favourites to be relegated. See the full Barclays Premier League football betting odds market here.
