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Ashley Westwood, who was previously considering retirement at Burnley, has been revitalized and now plans to continue playing well into his forties as he pursues his American dream with Charlotte FC.
In April 2022, the 33-year-old was heartbroken after sustaining a severe ankle injury while competing for the ball against West Ham’s Nikola Vlasic.
Westwood’s 286th Premier League appearance was thought to be his final game for a period of time.
The difficult road to recovery had a negative impact on the typically positive midfielder, who did not participate in any more games for Burnley before departing in January of last year.
Westwood made a strategic decision to relocate to Charlotte and join their second season in the Major League Soccer. They are extremely pleased with the result.
“It’s amazing,” the captain of Charlotte exclaimed with a smile. “Just last year, I was seriously considering retirement.”
“I fractured my ankle and faced complications before reaching the middle of my rehabilitation. At that point, I reached a breaking point and decided to stop.”
“Even prior to that, I was becoming increasingly frustrated with the situation. Burnley’s actions were solely focused on avoiding relegation.”
“I had approximately 10 to 12 years of experience with it, and it became quite overwhelming. Mentally, it became difficult, causing me to lose my passion for it.”
“However, the chance to be here arose and it has been the greatest decision I have ever made.”
Westwood expressed his fondness for Burnley by stating, “they will always have a special place in my heart.” He also recently visited Vincent Kompany and his old teammates during the holiday season.
The Crewe youth product is forever thankful to the Clarets for giving him the opportunity to join Charlotte – a place he now considers his permanent home, despite only recently becoming familiar with its location.
“The experience in the Queen City has greatly rejuvenated me,” stated the ex-Aston Villa player, referring to the recent hiring of Dean Smith as head coach.
I may have some regrets for requesting to leave Burnley, but Vinny (Kompany) was very understanding and allowed me to leave.
I was truthful with him. I approached him and explained, “this situation has arisen,” but they required me to be signed on a free basis due to their salary limitations.
I had a conversation with Vinny and he expressed that they do not want to lose me, but he also respects the decision that was made. Then, he allowed me to leave.
“It has revitalized me and my family. It has been the greatest gift for us – the children are flourishing and my wife is finding joy in it.”
“I aspire to continue until I reach the age of 40. I have a desire to remain here for an extended period.”
Westwood moved to MLS at an exciting time for the sport in North America, with the 2026 World Cup following on the back of Lionel Messi’s blockbuster move to Inter Miami.
It is not surprising that some of his former colleagues, ranging from players on the English national team to those who regularly play in the Premier League, have shown interest in joining him in America.
Westwood stated that having players like Messi and Suarez on the team has made the sport more attractive, as evidenced by receiving messages from friends expressing interest in joining.
If the World Cup is successful, it could lead to a lot of growth. There are many factors to consider, such as budgets and the wage cap.
Our owner is enthusiastic about doing it (and paying more), and is eager to pursue it, but it ultimately depends on convincing the other owners to agree. If they do, it has great potential for success.
Source: independent.co.uk
