Ex-West Ham star and son of Newcastle legend forced to retire aged 31 after shocking medical diagnosis
A FORMER West Ham player has been forced into early retirement after suffering from arthritis.
Olly Lee, son of Newcastle legend Rob, has announced he has hung up his boots aged just 31.
The former midfielder has been suffering from Psoriatic Arthritis and Raynaud’s condition and the strain on his body has prevented him from continuing playing.
Lee came through the youth ranks at West Ham but he failed to make a senior appearance for the Hammers.
A permanent move to Barnet followed before spells at Birmingham and Luton, where he made 124 appearances.
Lee then went to Scotland where he played for Hearts but soon returned to the EFL on loan at Gillingham.
He signed permanently for the Gills in 2021 and made 10 appearances this season but feels he is no longer physically capable of playing at a professional level.
In a message to the Gillingham website, Lee wrote: “I can’t believe I am actually writing this, but having been diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis and Raynaud’s condition over a year ago, I am now having to face the fact I can no longer continue my professional football career.
“I can no longer perform to the levels I know I am capable of, my body no longer allows it.
“This has been an extremely painful journey both mentally and physically.
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“I have tried many medications over the last year, and many comebacks, but to no avail.
“I am thankful for the moments I have been fortunate enough to experience, and can now finally look back on my career with pride at what I did manage to achieve.
“I am thankful for all the support from the fans at the clubs I was lucky enough to represent, particularly Luton and Hearts, two clubs that are now extremely close to my heart and I will always follow.
“There are still tough days ahead but I am very lucky to have found my passion in coaching, and helping people which I am excited to dive into now.
“Although playing at the level is no longer part of my journey, it is now the fuel that drives me to help the next generation of players on their journey.”