Lukas Jutkiewicz pens emotional Birmingham City farewell message ahead of imminent retirement | OneFootball

Lukas Jutkiewicz is retiring from football at the end of the season as he readies himself for his last ever Blues home match

Lukas Jutkiewicz has released a heartwarming statement to Birmingham City fans ahead of their final home match of the season, ollowing confirmation of his retirement from football.

The 36-year-old will take part in his final home game for the club on Sunday afternoon against Mansfield Town before hanging up his boots.

Blues have been crowned League One champions after a stellar campaign, and will be back in the Championship after just a one-year absence.

However, Jutkiewicz will not be a part of Chris Davies’ side for that challenge, with the striker putting an end to a 19-year career and eight-year stint at St. Andrew’s.

Lukas Jutkiewicz’s retirement message issued ahead of final Birmingham City home match

Jutkiewicz has made it clear just how much the club means to him and his family, with both of his children being born in the area.

He’s called Birmingham his home, claiming he is proud of the journey he’s been on with the Blues and their fans.

“Birmingham holds a special place in my family’s heart,” wrote Jutkiewicz, via the club’s official website.

“Our children, Jakob and Amelie, were born here, it’s where we have built our lives, and this city will forever be a part of our story.

“I’m incredibly proud that my journey as a footballer ends at such a special club.

“Thank you to everyone who I have worked with throughout my time at Birmingham City - staff and team-mates alike. It’s been a privilege to share the pitch and dressing room with you.

“To you, the Bluenoses - we’ve been through a lot together! Thank you for your unwavering support, you’ve made me feel like one of your own. You are the heart of this club and have been a constant source of motivation.

“The loyalty and passion you have shown during turbulent times has been inspiring and I can think of no set of fans more deserving of the bright future and optimism that the new era of this football club has brought.

“I’ve always strived to represent you the way that you want on the pitch, and it has been the greatest honour to wear the shirt 356 times. It is something I have never taken for granted.

“This club has given me so much, and I am deeply grateful that I will play my final professional game with a Birmingham City badge on my chest. Birmingham City is not just a football club to me - it’s my home.”

Jutkiewicz also outlined his excitement at the prospect of working with Birmingham once his career is finished, as he embarks on the next steps in his life.

Birmingham have passed the 100-point mark in League One already this season, with Jutkiewicz’s final home fixture against Mansfield Town set to kick off at 3pm on Sunday.

Lukas Jutkiewicz will always go down as a part of Birmingham City folklore

Jutkiewicz has been a key part of Birmingham City's squads for several seasons, with his committed performances making him a fan favourite.

He enjoyed prolific campaigns that included 14 goals and 10 assists in 2018/19, as well as 15 goals and three assists in 2019/20, when he was at the peak of his powers.

While his influence on the team waned in the last couple of years, he will still get to go out on a high note with the club winning the League One title, albeit he has had a bit-part role on the pitch with that.