Czech stopper to finish career at end of season
Wednesday 16 January 2019 14:26, UK
David Seaman is surprised Petr Cech is retiring but admitted every goalkeeper knows when it is time to call it a day.
Cech stated his decision to retire at the end of the campaign on Tuesday, having won four Premier League crowns, five FA Cups, the Champions League, the Europa League and three League Cups - he also holds the record for Premier League clean sheets (202).
Former Arsenal, Manchester City and England stopper Seaman played on until he was 40 and he admits he is concerned Cech may decide in future he has called time on his career too soon.
"Honestly, I was surprised, he's only 36. I thought it was a little early but when you are a goalkeeper, you know when it is time to retire," Seaman told Sky Sports News.
"Petr has had his own chat with people and he has his own thoughts as well. For him it is the right time but I just thought it was a little bit early.
"I was ready. I was 40 and had been 22 years a pro, and really enjoyed myself. Petr's 36 and I can't help thinking he might feel 'I could have gone on for another couple of years.'"
As for Cech's legacy, Seaman has no doubt he will go down as one of the greatest to have played in the Premier League.
"He was one of the best, no doubt," Seaman added. "The standard he set when he came in was brilliant and that has been proven by all the trophies he has won.
"He won a hell of a lot of trophies with Chelsea, came to Arsenal and still kept that standard of great goalkeeping.
"I've been impressed all through his career, even to this season. He was playing really well until he got his injury.
"It was a shame he got injured and as to how many games he will play between now and the end of the season we don't know but it will probably be just a couple of cups.
"He has been a fantastic goalkeeper for the Premier League."
Seaman also revealed the moment he knew he wanted to bring his playing career to an end.
"I remember the time as plain as day," he said. "I was playing for Man City, we were playing Wolves away, the ball was down the other end, and I had the feeling of 'what am I doing.'
"I knew then that was the time to call it a day. I went in the next day and told Kevin [Keegan].
"I got injured a bit later and that decided it clearcut for me. I am sure Petr has had those thoughts going through his head as well and that is why he has decided to call it a day.
"I was ready and have been happily retired ever since. It was 15 years on Monday since I retired and I have enjoyed every day since."
