Kyle Walker has revealed his desire to play for boyhood club Sheffield United again before retiring, as he approaches the final year of his Burnley contract. The 35-year-old full-back, who retired from international football last week, spoke to Gary Neville on The Overlap about his future plans.
Walker, who came through the Blades' academy before joining Tottenham in 2009, admitted he is 'dreaming' of a return to Bramall Lane. 'It's always been a dream to play for Sheffield United again,' he said. 'To start there at six years old and then leaving at 19 - I spent so many incredible years there. I hope to play for them again. I don't know when that will be. I don't know if they will want me.'
The six-time Premier League winner left Manchester City last summer to join Burnley on a two-year deal after a loan spell at AC Milan. He has made 28 appearances for Scott Parker's side this season and says he feels good physically, but acknowledges the mental challenges of continuing at the top level.
'You fight your little battles in your head if you can keep doing it,' Walker added. 'I don't want to tarnish what I've done but I also have a level of respect for myself that I'll do it on my terms. I'm not letting outside noise reflect what I want to do as a footballer because it's a short career.'
Walker, who earned 96 caps for England and played at five major tournaments, says he will leave the game on his own terms. 'I feel once that time in my head comes where I'm done, I'd have to be true to myself. Leave the game before the game leaves you.'
