Nick Powell reveals he almost retired at 31

Bradford City forward Nick Powell has revealed he was on the verge of retiring in January at the age of 31. The forward described that period as a particularly difficult time in his life, during which he struggled to see a future for himself in the game.

"I was going to retire in January, it was a dark time for me," Powell told BBC Radio Leeds. "I couldn't see a future here and it was one of them where did I really want to carry on?"

I was going to retire in January, it was a dark time for me. I couldn't see a future here. Nick Powell

The former Manchester United and Stoke City man managed to turn things around after a strong pre-season, which earned him a new contract. Currently, Powell is content with his role as a substitute, having featured off the bench in all 11 of Bradford's games this season. He also highlighted his ability to influence matches in short bursts, including a brace in the EFL Trophy victory over Newcastle's Under-21 side.

Looking back, the 32-year-old admitted that some of his past injury struggles were self-inflicted due to a lack of proper care for his body earlier in his career. Now, with a refreshed perspective, Powell says he is cherishing every moment on the pitch, whether he starts or comes on as a substitute, and hopes to continue his playing days for several more years.