Defender Abel Xavier quits football for Islam

A veteran of World Cup and European championships, Abel Xavier, has made the decision to convert to Islam and hang up his boots.

The former Everton soccer player will now go by the name of Faisal Xavier.

“I hope to participate in something very special as I enter a new stage of my life,” Xavier was quoted as saying by Goal.com on his recent embrace of Islam.

"In times of trouble, I have found comfort in Islam. Gradually I learned of a religion that professes peace, equality, freedom and hope. These are extremely important."

The Mozambique-born defender has vowed to embark on humanitarian projects with the United Nations.

The 37-year-old Xavier last played for Los Angeles Galaxy. He launched his career in Portugal and pursued it in Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, England, Turkey, Germany, and ultimately the USA.