Former Chelsea, Aston Villa, Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield United defender announces his retirement

The 36-year-old was capped 61 times by England after starting his career with Aston Villa in 2004. He had loan spells at Burnley and Sheffield United during his time at Villa Park.

He made 16 appearances for the Blades in a three-month stint at Bramall, where he also scored twice before joining Bolton Wanders in 2008. The centre-back remained in Lancashire until January 2012 when he signed for Chelsea, as he helped the club win their first Champions League title later that season.

After leaving Stamford Bridge, he joined Crystal Palace and then Bournemouth. He left the Cherries at the end of last season and has now made the decision to hang up his boots.

“Football is a game that has given me so much enjoyment and success and as I make the decision to hang up my boots, I can honestly say I gave it everything I had,” the two-time Premier League winner wrote on social media.

“I’ve achieved things I once dreamt of, creating some incredible memories. From amazing highs like winning the Champions League and Premier League, to the privilege of captaining my country and Chelsea in an FA Cup winning team will remain with me forever.

“I’ve also made some fantastic friendships with people across the football world, from team-mates, managers, and the unsung heroes behind the scenes, I just want to say a massive thank you.

“Taking the decision to stop playing is not an easy one. I’ve spent 20 years training every day, putting in the work to be in the best possible shape for matchday to help the teams I’ve played for be successful.

“I’ve had time to consider my options and after much deliberation and reflection I feel now is the time to move on to the next stage of my career.”