Former Bolton team-mate Jack Wilshere has led the tributes to Gary Cahill after the defender announced his retirement from professional football.

Wilshere played alongside the centre-back during a loan spell at Wanderers during the 2009/10 campaign.

Cahill spent four years at the UniBol between 2008 and 2012, making 147 appearances for the club in total.

The defender had huge success at Chelsea, winning two Premier League titles and even earning a Champions League winner’s medal.

He also represented England 61 times in total and was called up for all four major tournaments between 2012 and 2018.

Wilshere wrote on social media: “Congrats on a top career mate and thanks for all the help in the Bolton days.”

The former Arsenal man also went on to achieve big things after leaving Wanderers, winning the FA Cup twice and playing 34 times for England.

The 30-year-old announced his own retirement over the summer and is now back at the Emirates Stadium as head coach of the Gunners' Under-18 side.

Several of Cahill’s former Chelsea team-mates also sent messages after he announced he would be calling time on his playing career.

Petr Cech said, “Congratulations on an amazing career,” and John Terry added, “Congratulations on an unbelievable career mate”.

Willian wrote: "Congratulations on your amazing career mate," and Pedro said: "All the best my friend!"

Cahill became a popular figure among supporters during his time at Bolton, and plenty of fans sent messages of their own on social media.

Bobby Jones wrote: “One of the best CBs I’ve ever seen growing up as a Bolton fan,” and Matt Atherden added: “One of my favourite Bolton players in recent years, Rolls Royce of a player”.

Darren Greensheilds said: “Congratulations on a fantastic career, you’ll always be welcome back at BWFC”.

Andy Hardman added: “Thank you Gary for the memories at Bolton Wanderers and England… Top, honest professional”.

Meanwhile, Tom Walsh said: “One of my favourite BWFC players,” and Adam Swift simply stated: “One of the best”.

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