After being sidelined for the 2015 season due to a heart ailment, Eddie Johnson officially ended his soccer career Sunday.
D.C. United announced Johnson’s retirement from the game hours before kickoff against the New York Red Bulls, and the club intends to recognize his extensive playing career at halftime during the pair’s Eastern Conference semifinal meeting at RFK Stadium (3 p.m., ESPN).
Johnson, 31, ends his professional career with 71 goals and 21 assists in MLS. Meanwhile, he ends his international career with 63 caps and 19 goals scored, enough to currently hold the eighth most all-time for the U.S. Men’s National Team.
“Eddie had many outstanding accomplishments during his career and was a valuable member of the team during his time with D.C. United,” D.C. United general manager and vice president of soccer operations Dave Kasper said. “He will be missed but always remembered as he moves on beyond the playing field.”
After it was reported in March that Johnson may not be able to play again due to him being sidelined with a heart ailment, the forward had his MLS contract voided in May. Johnson’s last appearance came in 2014, due to athletic heart syndrome
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