Morten Lunde Spencer who played for England’s youth teams has been left ‘heartbroken’ after he was forced to retire following a cardiac problem
An England youth star has been left heartbroken after he’s been forced to retire from football aged 21.
Morten Lunde Spencer, who played for England’s youth teams, took to social media to announce his decision. In a statement he said: “Heartbroken to be saying this. I will be retiring from professional football due to a cardiac problem I can’t carry on with.
“All I’ve ever known is to kick a ball and I have learnt everything from the game. I’m thankful and proud of what I have achieved.
“I will never forget the memories I have and have created along an amazing journey. Football is in my DNA and I will continue to support everyone who helped me along the way.
“I want to thank everyone who has stuck with me during this tough period and everyone who has helped me during my career. Thank you!”
Spencer emerged through the Sunderland academy and it was during his time in the north east he picked up two youth caps for England at U15 and U16 level – he was also eligible for Norway.
He would move to Leeds United in 2019 – and plenty of his former team-mates wished him well in the Instagram comments section.
West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville offered a heart emoji, while Spurs‘ Archie Gray replied: “All the best mate.” Sonny Perkins added: “All the best in your next chapter bro!”
“All the best mate good luck in the future,” Leo Hjelde said. While Leif Davis added a white heart emoji and Jordan Jones said: “So sorry to be reading this bro. Be proud of what you have achieved mate and good luck with everything going forward!”
Spencer would never break into Leeds’ first team – and he moved to Derby in 2024, where he featured for the U21s team.