3 players you didn't know who are currently playing non-league football

There are many high profile players who have seen themselves drop down the leagues in English football throughout the years. Some of these players have had the opportunity to showcase their ability in the Premier League proving how good of a footballer they have been during their peak years. As years go on players choose different paths to end their careers, this is often judged on their age, ability or connections within football. The most likely root for a footballer is to retire at an age they feel their body can not keep up with the physical aspect of the game and therefore continue their career in football by obtaining a job within a club such as coaching, scouting or becoming a manager.

However some footballers feel reluctant to retire and want to continue playing football at whatever level possible. Although their physical condition may not be at the level it used to be, their mental knowledge of the game still remains and can be extremely useful for clubs lower down the leagues. Having a high profile player within the ranks can be a huge boost for any low league club due to the influence it can provide for the team.

Here are 3 players who have decided to continue their careers in non-league.

Mike Williamson - Gateshead

The 36 year old centre back has played for some top clubs throughout the years. Playing for clubs such as Watford, Portsmouth, Newcastle United and Wolverhampton it is clear he was a solid defender and could compete in the top flight.

His most memeroable time in his career was his whopping 150 appearances for Newcastle United. Williamson signed for the Magpies in 2010 where he later played a big part in Newcastles great season that saw them finish 5th in the 2011-12 season. After six years with the club a Wolverhampton loan turned into a transfer as he continued his football in the Championship.

After dropping down the Leagues Williamson is currently a player-coach at Gateshead in The National League North.

Ricardo Fuller - Nantwich Town

The Jamaican has had a busy career playing his football in England, Jamaica and Scotland. The Forward has now played for 11 English teams but is best remembered for his six year spell with Stoke City.

After signing for The Potters in 2006, Fuller quickly became a fan favourite where he managed 43 goals in 182 appearances, helping them claim promotion into the top flight in the 2007-08 season. He also scored Stoke City's first-ever Premier League goal.

The striker hung his boots up in 2016, but at 40 years old has come out of retirement to play for Nantwich Town in the seventh tier of English football.

Robbie Savage - Stockport Town

After making 623 professional appearances during a 15-year playing career, you'd think Savage would happily put his feet up and focus on the his media career, but no.

The midfielder started off as a youth player for Manchester United, after not making the grade he joined Crewe Alexandra. Soon after he became a regular for Leicester City in a five year spell. He continued to be a useful player for Birmingham City and Blackburn Rovers. He later went on to captain Derby County where he eventually finished his playing career. Savage managed to play 39 times for the Wales national team.

The 45 year old has now come out of retirement to play for Stockport Town in the 10th tier of English football.