Marc Albrighton, Wilfred Ndidi, and Kelechi Iheanacho also congratulate Shinji Okazaki on his 20-year career, following his final professional football performance on Friday.
Shinji Okazaki was waved off by Leicester City legends Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez as he played his final professional football match.
On Friday night, the Japan international made his final appearance before retiring this summer for Sint-Truiden against City’s sister club OH Leuven in the Belgian league. He was replaced after 50 minutes and received a guard of honour from both sets of players as he departed the field.
But before the match, his 586th senior club appearance, he was shown video tributes from former City and Japan teammates. Along with fellow Premier League champions Vardy, Mahrez, and Marc Albrighton, long-time City teammates Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho, and Japan internationals Shinji Kagawa, Keisuke Honda, and Yuta Nagatomo congratulated Okazaki on his 20-year career in the game.
The 38-year-old striker was the ideal foil for Vardy and Mahrez, constantly running over the pitch to push defenders and connect play, allowing the two great attackers to flourish in City’s title-winning season. Here’s what they said about their former teammate.
Jamie Vardy: “Shinji, congratulations on your incredibly incredible career. I miss you. I know we’ve always kept in touch, but I’m looking forward to seeing you again soon. “Much love.”
Riyad Mahrez: “Shinji, I hope you are well, my friend. I heard your career had ended. You were a fantastic player and teammate. really professional, but also really funny. All of our memories together, as well as the league we won, would not have been possible without you. It’s been a pleasure, pal.”
Wilfred Ndidi says, “Yes, Shinji! I just want to congratulate you on your retirement. I’d also like to wish you the best on your upcoming voyage. Enjoy yourselves, brother! “Take care of yourself.
Marc Albrighton: “Shinji!” How are you, mate? Congratulations on your fantastic career. You’ve had a great time playing the game. Off the pitch, we’ve had some incredible experiences, including many wonderful and humorous nights. I wish you all the best for the future. I hope everything goes as planned with whatever you do next. Best wishes and good luck.
Kelechi Iheanacho: Hello, Shinji, this is your friend Kel. You’ve done excellent work for the club. I am here to wish you all the best in the future. “Enjoy, Shinji!”
