Kenwyne Jones may have called an end to his professional soccer career.
In a message posted on Twitter, Jones wrote:
“Football has been great to me, I thank everyone who has helped me on the way, I appreciate you, but this is my last year in the sport...#onelove”
Atlanta United announced Monday that it declined to pick up the option on his contract, a few hours before Jones posted his message. Jones, 33, scored twice in 17 appearances.
Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra praised Jones’ leadership Monday.
His experience in the Premier League and Championship with Sunderland, Stoke City, Southampton, Cardiff City and Bournemouth made it seem like he would be an excellent fit in MLS.
Jones was signed before manager Gerardo Martino was hired. It was going to be interesting to see how Jones, a tall, physical striker, would fit into Martino’s pressing system, which relies more on movement and quickness than brute force.
Jones started five times. When asked, Martino would always say that the native of Trinidad and Tobago did whatever was asked.
Jones’ season was affected by a knee injury sustained while playing with his national team. It sidelined him for 15 games from June-September.
