Former Arsenal youth product Frimpong announces retirement at the age of just 27

Arsenal youth product Emmanuel Frimpong has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 27.

The midfielder, who joined the Gunners at the age of nine and made six first team appearances, has struggled with a knee injury for the past five years.

And the Ghanaian free agent, who last played for Turkish outfit Ermis Aradippou in 2017, has decided it is time to hang up his boots.

Taking to Twitter, Frimpong wrote: 'It is with great sadness I have decided to retire from professional football.

'I have had problems with my knee for the last five years or so and have got back to playing at a professional level.

'But since November 2017 I haven't been in action as I had a tear in my knee ligament.

'I decided with my own will that I will not opt for the operation since I was not enjoying football playing through pain.

'I would love to thank all the clubs I have represented, Arsenal, Charlton, Barnsley, Fulham, Ufa, AFC Eskilstuna and Ermis for the love and support they have given and to the fans who always supported me. Thank you and let's see what the future holds.

'Spending time with my daughter and family the last year has made me realise I'm blessed.