Binks opts for retirement to support his son's footballing career

Sunday 01st November 2009

CHATHAM TOWN legend, Tom Binks, has explained why he has opted for retirement at the age of just 30.

After making his debut for the Chats in their first game back in the old Southern League, full-back Binks went on to start 312 league and cup games for the club with a further 15 appearances as substitute.

His son, Luis, has been offered a chance at Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur, so Binks has opted to put family first and has decided to hang up his boots to follow his son’s promising career.

“After playing over 350+ games for Chatham Town I have decided to call an end to my playing days (not like I'm going to make it now anyway) to allow me to spend more time with my family and meet my heavy work commitments at this time,” Binks told www.chathamtownfc.net.

“The simple truth is that I am no longer able to give the commitment to OB, (Alex O’Brien) Lew (Watts), the boys and the club that is required to take us forward and achieve the goal of promotion for this season.

“Now that Luis, my son, has been offered a chance at a Premier League club at the start of his career, I want to dedicate my time to be there for him as his squad train primarily on a Saturday morning until after 12:00, so there is no way of being able to guarantee getting back to Maidstone Road in time. And there’s also my little girl, Isla, to think about too – I really want to be around as she grows up.

“This has been the hardest decision I have had to make in football as I have played semi-pro for the last 13 years but I feel I am doing it for the right reasons.

“On the pitch, I would like to thank every manager and player that I have played under and with during the last 8 seasons and would like to express a massive thanks to OB (O’Brien) and Lew for their support and understanding with me this season.

“The club is moving in the right direction, and, in pre season when I re-signed my ambition was to play a part in winning the league, as this is the most talented group of players I have played with. I just hope they now maintain the right attitude, dedication and desire and fulfil their potential.

“I would like you all to know that I have prided myself on giving 100% to every training session and game that I have represented for the club and hope that you could see that through the years of consistent performances that I gave for Chatham.

“Finally I owe it all to my missus, Jo, and family and want to thank them for supporting me along the way.”

Article courtesy of www.chathamtownfc.net