“I feel so lucky and privileged to have been able to play this game professionally for over 20 years,” said Wilkinson. “My football career has given me more than I could have ever hoped for, and it has provided me with lasting relationships, experiences and memories that I will carry with me forever.
 

“But I feel now is the right time to retire and I am looking forward to the next chapter in my life. I owe everyone at Sydney FC a huge thank you for firstly allowing me to be a part of this wonderful club for such an extended period of time, but secondly for making my time here so thoroughly enjoyable.”

Wilkinson started his career in the National Soccer League with Northern Spirit in 2002 before stints at Ryde City Gunners and Manly United. He joined Central Coast Mariners in 2005 and helped the club to the A-League Premiership in 2008, a title they claimed again in 2012.
 

He briefly went on loan to Chinese Super League side Jiangsu Sainty in 2011 and in late 2012 sealed a move to Jeonbuk, where he won K-League titles in 2014 and 2015 before returning to Australia having featured at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and at the 2015 AFC Asian Cup.
 

Wilkinson spent a short spell at Melbourne City prior to a switch to Sydney FC, where he won a further three A-League Premierships and three A-League Championships as well as the 2017 FFA Cup in a career at saw him play 50 times in the AFC Champions League.

“Alex has had a stunning career; he has won every major domestic trophy and is not only a great footballer but also a great person,” said Sydney FC head coach Steve Corica.
 

“He is the ultimate professional, sets high standards for our players on the pitch and as a great leader, drives the culture off it.
 

“He played in the very first A-League Grand Final 18 years ago and is still able to perform to the highest standards. I wish him all the best for the future.”

 

Photos: AFP, AFC