Oxford United’s Sam Baldock has called time on his playing career, announcing his retirement at the age of 34. He will continue to play a role at the club, having accepted a newly created position of Business Development Analyst.
Sam, who joined the U’s in February 2022, has decided to retire after a series of injuries meant he was limited to just seven games for Oxford United, the club he grew up watching at The Manor. Sam started his playing career at MK Dons before spells at West Ham United, Bristol City, Brighton, Reading and Derby County. In total he played 429 senior games, scoring 121 goals.
Following discussions with Liam Manning, Tim Williams and Grant Ferguson, he will remain with the club to provide support and knowledge to various areas of the business, and to assess his options for the future.
He told www.oufc.co.uk:
“In the end it was kind of an easy decision because the injuries had just become too much. I did all that I could to get fit and the medical team at Oxford have been incredible. I got so close to a return in January and then had another setback. This summer was tough, wondering whether I might have another season within me but, in the end, that gamble was not fair on anyone, including the club and my family who have been so supportive while I worked out what to do.
“It’s the right time to retire. I'm pleased with the career that I've had, and I have met some great people. They say not to have regrets, but I think I will always look back and wish I had been able to play more games for Oxford and really show what I could do. I watched them as a kid and wanted to win promotion here. It wasn’t to be, but I want to thank both Managers, all of the staff and the Board for their support and the fans because they were incredible even in my short time out there on the pitch.
“I love the sport and want to stay involved and it is great that Oxford have given me a chance to give something back. I am truly grateful to the Manager, Tim and Grant for their influence in forming this role for me.
“It may be that coaching is what I turn to, but the other side of the sport is equally interesting. I have spent a couple of months with the commercial and marketing team and this week started a similar spell with the Academy. Over the rest of the season I want to find out what makes a football club tick, and doing it at Oxford is a fantastic opportunity. I am determined to learn and absorb as much knowledge as possible and give back from my experiences at different clubs.
“It’s a new challenge and one I’m already relishing.”
Liam Manning told www.oufc.co.uk:
“Sam has had a wonderful playing career but that transition to the next phase of your career can be hard for players.
“This allows him to make that move a little more smoothly and, at the same time, you want to keep someone with Sam’s experience and personality within the game. He has so much to offer and having him within the club will hopefully work really well for all of us.”