Michael Owen admitted there had been a lump in his throat as he ended his stellar career at St Mary's on Sunday.
.
The former Liverpool and England striker played the final 17 minutes of Stoke's 1-1 draw with Southampton but was unable to influence the result.
.
Both sets of fans chanted his name throughout the match and Owen revealed he had been touched by the send-off.
.
Michael Owen's career
Liverpool (1996-2004): 297 games, 158 goals
Real Madrid (2004-05): 40 games, 14 goals
Newcastle (2005-09): 79 games, 30 goals
Man Utd (2009-12): 52 games, 17 goals
Stoke (2012-13) Nine games, one goal
England (1998-2008): 89 caps, 40 goals
.
"I have hardly contributed for Stoke and for them to chant my name, was something else," he said.
.
"I want to thank the Stoke and Southampton fans.
.
"It has been mixed emotions, but I could not have wished for a better send off. It has been a great career. To bring it to a halt feels strange."
.
Owen received a standing ovation from all four
corners of the ground as he left the field at the final whistle, calling time on a career that has taken him from Liverpool to Real Madrid, Newcastle, Manchester United and Stoke.
.
But Owen was certain now was the right time to walk away. "There was a lump in my throat but not a tear in my eye. I am pleased it is over in many ways now," he added.
.
"I didn't really have a change of heart. When you've been at the top, it is hard not to be there anymore. It is not enjoyable when you cannot influence a game anymore.
.
"I will stick to five-a-side games with my mates from now on."
He deserves more than what he was given. Though he should retired long before now cos he lost his touch few years ago...
His time at Manchester United was just not all that perfect but all in all, he still remains a legend in the game of football.