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OFFICIAL: James McArthur announces his retirement from football

  /  autty

Former Crystal Palace star James McArthur has announced his retirement from football aged 35.

McArthur made 253 appearances and scored 19 goals in all competitions for Palace after then-Eagles boss Neil Warnock signed him from Wigan for £12million in September 2014.

The midfielder would swiftly become one of the most beloved stalwarts at the club, consistently giving his all from central midfield as he developed from an forward thinking box-to-box player before adopting more defensive responsibilities in his later years.

Despite being limited to just four appearances last season, McArthur was given a dream farewell in front of the Selhurst Park faithful on the final day of the campaign, being handed the armband after coming on as a second-half substitute against Nottingham Forest.

'After 18 years of playing professional football, the game I love, today I am announcing my retirement. McArthur wrote in a statement shared on social media on Monday.

'After playing for three amazing clubs in Hamilton, Wigan & Crystal Palace, and representing my country, I can only look back on the past 18 years with immense pride.

'I cannot thank the players, managers, coaches, owners, staff members and fans enough for always supporting me and being a huge part of my journey.

'A day that I never wanted to happen, but it's decision that I know is right for me and my family.

'I'm not entirely sure what the future holds, but I am looking forward to the next chapter in my career.'

Prior to joining the South London club McArthur had starred in the Wigan side that stunned Man City to win the FA Cup in 2013 thanks to an injury-time goal from Ben Watson.

In addition to his achievements in club football, McArthur also earned 32 caps for his native Scotland after making his debut as a substitute in a win over the Faroe Islands in 2010.

McArthur would go on to score four goals for his country before calling time on his international career in 2017.