Ranking 11 English clubs that have retired a jersey number

July 4, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

In football, few honors are as powerful or emotional as retiring a jersey number. Unlike in American sports, where it’s more common, English clubs rarely take this step — which makes each instance even more meaningful. Whether done to celebrate an extraordinary legacy or to pay tribute after heartbreaking tragedy, these retirements reflect deep respect and lasting connection between club and player. Here’s a look at 11 English teams that chose to retire a shirt number, and the remarkable stories that led them to do so.

Birmingham City – Jude Bellingham (#22)

In 2020, Birmingham City shocked many by retiring Jude Bellingham’s number 22 shirt after he left for Borussia Dortmund. Though Bellingham had only played 41 games, the club believed his maturity and talent embodied their future. Critics called it premature, but as he now shines at Real Madrid and for England, Birmingham’s decision seems ever more justified.

Accrington Stanley – Billy Kee (#29)

Billy Kee became a legend at Accrington Stanley, scoring 77 goals in 211 league matches. After bravely opening up about his struggles with depression, anxiety, and bulimia, he retired from football in 2020. In honor of his incredible service and openness, Accrington chose to retire his number 29 shirt permanently.

Chesterfield – Jack Lester (#14)

Jack Lester’s six years at Chesterfield were marked by consistent goals and passionate leadership, netting 83 times in under 200 league games. When he left in 2013, the club retired his number 14 jersey to acknowledge his massive influence. Fittingly, Lester even returned later for a season as Chesterfield’s manager.

Hartlepool United – Michael Maidens (#25)

Michael Maidens broke into Hartlepool’s first team at 17 and was seen as a future star. Tragically, at age 20, he died in a car accident in 2007. The club postponed matches to pay respects and retired his number 25 shirt, also renaming their Goal of the Season award in his memory.

Macclesfield Town – Richard Butcher (#21)

Richard Butcher played only 15 games for Macclesfield after joining in 2010, but his unexpected death at 29 left a profound impact. Found dead at home in 2011, Macclesfield responded by retiring his number 21 jersey, ensuring his contribution and character were honored forever.

Manchester City – Marc-Vivien Foe (#23)

Marc-Vivien Foe starred in Manchester City’s midfield on loan during the 2002–03 season, scoring nine goals in 35 games. In 2003, he tragically collapsed and died while playing for Cameroon. City retired his number 23 shirt and added a memorial at their old ground to pay lasting tribute.

QPR – Ray Jones (#31)

QPR fans had high hopes for young striker Ray Jones, whose pace and finishing promised a bright future. That future was cut short in 2007 when he died in a car crash at just 18. In his honor, the club retired the number 31 jersey he proudly wore during his time at Loftus Road.

Rushden & Diamonds – Dale Roberts (#1)

Goalkeeper Dale Roberts was a pillar at Rushden & Diamonds before taking his own life at 24 amid injury struggles and intense media speculation. After his death in 2010, the club retired his number 1 shirt, making sure his dedication and spirit would always be remembered.

West Ham United – Bobby Moore (#6)

England’s 1966 World Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore is a football legend. West Ham United retired his iconic number 6 shirt in 2008, 15 years after his death. Moore remains celebrated not only for his brilliant defending but for being the only England captain to lift the World Cup.

West Ham United – Dylan Tombides (#38)

West Ham also retired Dylan Tombides’ number 38 jersey. Diagnosed with cancer while still in the academy, Tombides battled the disease with courage until he passed away in 2014 at just 20. His family laid his shirt on the pitch the next day, marking a deeply emotional moment for the club.

Wycombe Wanderers – Mark Philo (#14)

Mark Philo came through Wycombe’s youth ranks before tragedy struck in 2006. At just 21, Philo died from injuries sustained in a car accident that also claimed another driver’s life. Wycombe retired his number 14 shirt and honored him with a banner after their next League Cup tie.

Millwall – Matija Sarkic (#20)

Millwall recently retired their number 20 shirt after goalkeeper Matija Sarkic suddenly passed away at 26 due to heart failure. Though he had joined only a year earlier, Sarkic quickly became a fan favorite. The club also announced a mural and a new award for best save in his memory.