Former Liverpool and England defender Steven Caulker has revealed he is unemployed and "unable to get even an interview" as he seeks to move into coaching. The 34-year-old, who had a 17-year playing career, shared his situation in a social media post on LinkedIn.
Caulker's last role was as assistant manager at Turkish Süper Lig club Konyaspor, which he left on 10 September. The former Tottenham Hotspur defender once broke Cardiff City's transfer record when he joined from Spurs for £8 million.
Career and Playing Background
Caulker made more than 120 Premier League appearances during his playing career, representing Tottenham, Swansea, Cardiff, QPR, Southampton and Liverpool in the top flight. He also scored on his only England cap in a friendly against Sweden in November 2012.
During his career, Caulker struggled with alcohol, gambling and mental health issues to the point where he considered taking his own life. In his Premier League days, it was reported he earned £50,000-a-week. He last played for Icelandic side FC Stjarnan in 2025.
Social Media Post and Reactions
In his LinkedIn post, which went live on Sunday (October 18), Caulker wrote: "Being unemployed is stressful. I've been here many times before, I'm used to the rollercoaster of emotions, but it doesn't make it any easier."
He continued: "Applying for jobs for which I have all the qualifications yet am unable to get even an interview hurts, but that does not mean I should panic. Walt Disney was rejected over 300 times; rejection is part of most people's stories. The bit I find difficult is then turning down the jobs that do come my way which are not aligned with my goals."
Caulker added: "Staying calm and composed during these times is important, and adding some kind of structure to my day certainly helps. I've just finished my morning run and feeling pretty good after releasing some endorphins. Have a great Sunday."
Fan Responses
Football fans were split in their reactions to Caulker's post. One supporter wrote: "Someone claiming that being unemployed is stressful and in the same breath saying he's rejecting things not aligned with his goals, has never in their life dealt with the stress of unemployment."
Another fan added: "Doesn't look desperate to me." One person said: "With the money he earned in his career he shouldn't be in this situation at all." Another commented: "Got to be a wind up, must have literally made millions in his playing career."
However, other fans showed sympathy. One wrote: "Hope something good comes his way soon, tough situation." Another posted: "Sad to read this from Steven Caulker on LinkedIn this morning. If anyone is able to help him out, please reach out to him."
One fan added: "If the man is struggling, then he needs the support of society like we all do when we are struggling." Another wrote: "Some people forget that footballers are human beings. They are fallible and make mistakes as the rest of us. You spend as you earn and sometimes life can throw a spanner in the works. Being empathetic doesn't cost a penny."
