Sydney FC skipper and former Caltex Socceroo Alex Brosque will bring down the curtain on a glittering career in the Hyundai A-League at the end of the 2018/19 Season.
Brosque, who is the Sky Blues’ most successful captain, has decided to call time on his 18-year professional career.
The 35-year-old will go down as a Sydney FC legend, with his 82 goals currently the most by anyone at the club, while he has also played a record 264 games in Sky Blue.
The classy striker also made 21 appearances for the Caltex Socceroos between 2004 and 2013, scoring five goals.
He has also won more honours than anyone who has played for the club, including two Hyundai A-League Championships, three Premiers Plates, one FFA Cup title and three Player of the Year awards.
“Football and Sydney FC has allowed me to have some of the most incredible experiences I could ever have imagined,” Brosque said on Monday night.
“To have been able to do something I’ve loved ever since I was a young boy, and for this long, is incredibly humbling.
But after 18 years playing the game, I feel the time is right now to retire.
“This club and its members have been fantastic for me, and the connection I have with them is something I will carry with me forever.
“I owe all of our members and everyone at the club, from Scott Barlow to Steve Corica and all of my teammates over the years, a huge debt of thanks for their support.”
Brosque, who scored in Saturday night’s 1-1 derby draw against Western Sydney Wanderers, is not finished yet and has set his sights on going out with more silverware with the club.
While the Sky Blues cannot secure a third straight premiership after Glory confirmed top spot on Sunday, they are still well-placed for a crack at the Premiership.
Ahead of his final regular season home game on Thursday night, Brosque also paid tribute to the influence of his family on his career.
“From the very beginning my mum and dad have supported me along with my brother and sister,” he said.
“My wife and three daughters have travelled everywhere with me and have been there for me throughout.
“It has been an unbelievable journey and I’m glad it’s not over yet. I’m looking forward to finishing this season on high.”
Brosque started his career with Marconi Stallions in the old National Soccer League (NSL), while he first played in the Hyundai A-League with Queensland Roar.
But it’s his feats with the Sky Blues for which he will be most remembered.
“Alex Brosque is a name synonymous with Sydney FC and his list of records is incredible,” Sydney FC coach Steve Corica said.
“As captain he has led by example and it is no surprise the enormous success we have had under his leadership.
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“He is hugely respected by the playing group and staff and everyone throughout football, and his final appearances will be landmark games for the club.
Our intention is to send him out on a high with another piece of silverware.”
The Sky Blues plan to use Thursday night’s match against Perth Glory at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium to celebrate Brosque’s career at the club.
