‘I can’t carry on’ – Former England wonderkid and Derby star, 21, forced to retire with heart problem

DERBY starlet Morten Lunde Spencer has been forced into an early retirement after being diagnosed with a heart condition at just 21 years old.

He announced the decision this week in an emotional Instagram post accompanied by a slideshow of black-and-white photos from his career, in which he said he was ‘heartbroken' to be sharing the news.

Spencer wrote: “I will be retiring from professional football due to a cardiac problem I can’t carry on with.

“All I’ve ever known is to kick a ball and I have learnt everything from the game. I am thankful and proud of what I have achieved.

“I will never forget the memories I have created along an amazing journey. Football is in my DNA and I will continue to support everyine who helped me along the way.”

Spencer, a central midfielder, played his first academy matches for Sunderland before moving to Leeds United in 2019 and later to Derby County in 2024, where he featured regularly for the u21s.

The Darlington native joined his first team, Marton FC, at just 4 years old.

He has also been a regular in England youth setups, receiving his first call up at U15 level before switching allegiance to Norway.

Tending to sit deep in midfield, fans regarded him as a ‘maestro', with strong positional awareness and ability to use both feet.

He had been tipped to break through into the Leeds first team, an opportunity which would not materialise.

Various teammates of Spencer's have sent messages of support following the news including Tottenham midfielder Archie Gray.

The pair played together at Leeds' academy, with the Spurs midfielder writing: “All the best mate.”

Ian Harte, who made over 200 league appearances for Leeds between 1996 and 2004, added: “Gutted for you Morten! Stay strong.”

West Ham‘s Crysencio Summerville, who moved to East London from Leeds last year, added a heart emoji and a pair of praying hands, while countless other players and fans added their support to the chorus.

Among them was his mother, Heidi, who wrote: “Couldn't be more proud of you, now and forever.”

Speaking to Teesside Live when he earned his first England callup, Heidi gushed about her son's accomplishments.

She said: “We’re all so proud and excited that he’s been called up. He started kicking a ball when he was about two years old.”