Jamaican legend set to return to his homeland as he explores a potential move to the MLS
Following an impressive 1998 World Cup campaign with his native Jamaica, Ricardo Gardner signed for Bolton Wanderers – 15 years and many memories later he is now set to return to his Caribbean homeland.
In an exclusive interview with the club’s website, Gardner has revealed he and his family are set to return to Jamaica as he pursues a potential move to America’s MLS.
Bibi, as he is affectionately known by the Bolton fans, also took time to reflect on a memorable career with Wanderers in which he made over 400 appearances.
“I’ve been keeping myself healthy to prepare for what God has in store for me in the future,” Gardner explained. “My family are happy that we are heading back to Jamaica, which makes me happy.
“I want to get the family settled as quickly as possible then I am maybe looking at doing a year in the MLS. Who knows, I might even come back here for another year or two? We will see what happens.
“I do [feel like a proper Boltonian]. It’s home away from home for me. From the first day I came here everyone just made me feel so welcome, from Colin Todd to my team-mates and the fans.
“I first remember walking into such a beautiful stadium. I then remember coming off the bench and scoring the winner against West Brom and of course the play-off final against Preston.
“Time really does fly. It has been a great journey for me. There have been ups and downs but I take the positives. I have to thank God for all the achievements, as well as the chairman, fans and all of the coaches I have played under.
“This place will always be in my heart. I’ll be coming back and forth and Bolton is a part of me.
“I just want to send the Bolton supporters all my love and tell them thanks for all of the years that they have supported me.”