‘Difficult to put into words’ – EFL player retires at 28 after suffering fractured skull and bleed on brain

Fleetwood Town defender Denver Hume has retired with immediate effect after a 10-month injury lay-off.

The left-back has not played since October last year after suffering a fractured skull in training.

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Hume was left with a bleed on his brain after a collision during a session.

He has now been advised to hang up his boots just two weeks after turning 28.

Hume announces retirement

The Sunderland academy graduate confirmed his decision to retire in an emotional statement shared to social media.

Writing on Instagram, he admitted: “I never thought I’d be writing this at the age of 28, but following specialist medical advice, my career as a professional footballer has come to an end.

“After suffering a fractured skull and bleed on the brain last season, I’ve spent the months since trying to process this and find a way back to doing what I love the most.

“Unfortunately that isn’t going to be possible and is something I’ve had to come to terms with.”

Hume made 188 senior club appearances across spells with Sunderland, Portsmouth, Grimsby Town and Fleetwood.

His career saw him feature in the Championship, League One and League Two.

He added: “To every coach, staff member, teammate and supporter who’s been part of my journey – thank you.

“And most importantly, to my family, girlfriend and those closest to me. Thank you for every sacrifice, piece of advice, and being there through the highest and lowest moments. I couldn’t have done any of this without you.

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“Football has been a huge part of who I am and all I’ve known, but I’m excited to discover what life looks like beyond being a footballer.

“I’m incredibly grateful and proud of the journey I’ve had in the game, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the next chapter brings.”

Hume’s EFL career

Hume began his career with Sunderland, where he won the EFL Trophy in 2021.

He later moved to Portsmouth in January 2022, where he spent two years.

A 17-month stint with Grimsby followed after his arrival in early 2024.

During his time at Blundell Park, Hume was named in both the EFL and PFA Team of the Year for the 2024/25 season.

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His performances for the Mariners earned a move to Fleetwood last summer.

However, Hume made just nine appearances before suffering his now career-ending injury in training last October.