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Former Premier League star makes SHOCK career change – four years after retiring from football
- A former Premier League star has made a surprise career switch after retiring
- The journeyman revealed that he wishes he did this instead of playing football
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Former Premier League player Jelle van Damme has made a shock career change – the former Southampton man has switched football for professional cycling.
After retiring in February 2021, having last played for Lokeren the year prior, Van Damme plans to compete in a series of cycling events in the US this year. Most notably, Unbound Gravel – the World Cup of gravel cycling.
In 22 years as a professional footballer, the Belgian made 542 appearances across 10 different clubs. He began his journey at Beveren’s academy in his home country, and enjoyed stints at some big clubs, including Southampton, Wolves and Ajax.
The 6ft 4in defender made 31 caps for Belgium and won five trophies in his career, including the Eredivisie in 2003-04.
He joined the Saints in 2004 for £2.5million but made little impact during his one season in the top flight. He tallied six jut appearances for them and was part of a squad that got relegated.
Van Damme spent the following season on loan at Bundesliga club Werder Bremen before joining Anderlecht permanently in 2006 for around £335,000.
Jelle van Damme is pursuing professional cycling, four years after retiring from football
The Belgian played for the likes of Southampton, Wolves and Ajax in his 22-year-long career
He made 31 caps for the Belgian national team and 542 total club appearances in his career
He continued his career as a journeyman until hanging up his boots four years ago. Speaking about his switch to cycling, the 41-year-old candidly revealed he wishes he chose pedals over the pitch all those years ago.
‘If I could have my time over again I would set out to be a racing cyclist – despite all I have experienced in football,’ he said.
‘I think I would succeed given my mindset and personality. I always compare myself to [Belgian pro] Tim Declercq.
‘I’m not someone who looks to win the races, but a good “servant” who helps my teammates achieve the best possible finish. My passion for the sport has grown. I have taken on a coach, and I now have full sponsorship. I want to peak this year at the Unbound event in the US.’
Van Damme went on to explain that cycling scratches the athletic itch he had when he was a footballer and that he enjoys the suffering he endures during long, intense rides.
‘I began cycling with my brothers and nephews, doing 40-50km rides, but now I can do 120km distances. Just like in football, I can suffer on the bike. I can break down, but I’ll recover quickly. As an athlete I will want more when I see that I’m getting better.
‘I can be a right b*****d at times. I was like that as a footballer, and I’m the same now when I get on my bike. I think I can ride well, and when I’m in a peloton I am not afraid to throw myself around.
‘My family group calls me Kamikaze, as I’ll go from zero to flying round bends at top speed. Once an athlete, always an athlete.’
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Former Premier League star makes SHOCK career change – four years after retiring from football
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