TRIBUTES poured in for Teddy Sheringham, on the day that the 41-year-old Colchester United striker announced his intention to retire from professional football, at the end of this season.

Carl Marston

TRIBUTES poured in for Teddy Sheringham, on the day that the 41-year-old Colchester United striker announced his intention to retire from professional football, at the end of this season.

Sheringham played no part in the U's 1-0 defeat at the hands of Wolves, due to a foot infection, but he was at Layer Road to receive some treatment. He will hope to regain match-fitness to help with the U's desperate struggle to avoid relegation during the closing weeks of the season.

U's boss Geraint Williams said: “I can't see speak highly enough of Teddy. He has always had the will to win, which you can't just instil in a player.

“His professionalism has been legendary throughout his career. We respect his decision.”

Wolves left-back George Elokobi was one of those young players to benefit from Sheringham's presence during his time at Layer Road - the Cameroon-born defender left the U's to join Wanderers in January.

“Teddy may be a big name, but he was no different to the rest of us,” explained Elokobi.

“He was always just one of the boys when I was at Colchester. He brought a lot more experience to the team, and on a personal note he helped me out with my own game. I took all his advice on board.

“Teddy always helped the younger lads and he made life easier. He certainly didn't cause any unrest in the dressing room,” added Elokobi.

Front-runner Sheringham scored two goals in his first three appearances for the U's, following his summer move from West Ham on a free transfer.

But the former England, Manchester United and Tottenham striker has only one netted more goal since then, and has only started one league game since the turn of the year.

Sheringham revealed: “After a long and fun-filled career, I have decided that this season will be my last.

“I've had a fantastic time and want to thank all those that have contributed to my career and helped me along the way.

“I've no immediate thoughts about going into management, but football has always been my life and hopefully I will be back at some point in the future.

“Until then, I have to try and help Colchester United stay in the Championship,” added Sheringham.

Colchester midfielder Kevin Watson played with the 41-year-old former England star at Tottenham in the 1990s, as well as now at Colchester.

“I feel very proud to have played with such a terrific player as Teddy. It's second to none what he's done in his career, and he's been good for the lads to have him around at Colchester,” added Watson.