"I have not enjoyed the last couple of years playing football. My heart has simply not been in the game for the past couple of years.
"Other interests that I have, such as my studies in finance and economics and my desire to travel around the world, have aroused my enthusiasm far more than football has recently.
"I think it is fairly accurate to say that a footballer who is not passionate about football will not get much success or enjoyment out of the game.
"I am about to embark on a year-long travel around the world. Some younger people are fortunate to do this in their gap year, however, if you want to play professional football, then this is a non-starter.
"My car is loaded and ready to go for an 11-week trip around the country.
"After the US, I'm travelling to South America, New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong and China. I'm incredibly excited."