Former Liverpool and Rangers full-back Jon Flanagan announces his retirement from football

Former Liverpool and Rangers full-back Jon Flanagan has announced his retirement from football after struggling to recover from a recent surgery.

The defender confirms that he's 'tried everything possible' to get back to fitness after a knee operation, but having failed to do so, insists that his 'long term health has to come first'.

He made 40 appearances for the Reds between 2010-2018 before moving up to Scotland where he became a consistent feature in the Rangers squad.

In a post on Twitter, Flanagan wrote: 'Unfortunately after careful consideration I have made the toughest decision l've ever had to make; to retire from professional football.

'The last 14 months I have tried everything possible to recover from my most recent knee surgery.

'However, ultimately my long term health has to come first, so following medical advice the right thing for me to do now is retire from the game.

'My dream as a boy was to grow up and play football for a living and today I'm so proud to say; I lived that dream. Not only playing and captaining my boyhood club Liverpool but also making an appearance for my country, those memories created will last a lifetime and I'm so grateful that I have had the experience that most others can only wish for.

'I would like to thank everyone for their support over my journey, especially my girlfriend, family, friends, team-mates coaches and agents. I feel very fortunate to have you all in my life.

'Also, a massive thank you to the fans of Liverpool, Glasgow Rangers, Burnley, Bolton, Charleroi and HB Koge who have supported me throughout.

'You have been great and have made my journey an unforgettable one!

'I will now begin the next chapter of my football journey and I'm excited about what the future brings. See you soon, Flanno.'

More to follow