Jerry Flannery hangs up his boots

Munster hooker Jerry Flannery has called time on his rugby career, with injury eventually forcing the 33-year-old’s decision.

Flannery played 41 times for Ireland and was a key member of the 2009 Grand Slam side but recent seasons had been plagued by injury, with his final competitive game coming in the World Cup last September against USA.

Speaking on the Munster Rugby website Flannery explained his difficult decision.

"I'm very sad to have to announce my immediate retirement from rugby due to injury." Flannery said.

"Since my injury at the 2011 World Cup, I've struggled to regain the level of fitness required to play at this level and after consulting with the medical staff at Munster and at Ireland I am announcing my retirement with immediate effect.

"I would like to thank all the medical staff who have worked so hard on my behalf and shown great patience in dealing with me." he continued. "I feel incredibly privileged to have played with so many great players with Munster and with Ireland. To train hard and win trophies for Munster and Ireland alongside some of my best friends has been an amazing experience. I'm incredibly grateful for all the opportunities rugby has given me to date and I would like to thank all my friends, family, coaches and team-mates for their support along the way.

"Finally I would like to thank all the Munster and Irish rugby fans who I have been so proud to represent over the course of my career, your level of support has been amazing and I can never thank you all enough. It's been emotional!"

It certainly has Fla! The hooker joined Munster from Connacht in 2003 and played nine games for the province in their 2005/06 run to the Heineken Cup and after recovering from injury he was also central to the provinces second Heineken success in 2008.

Flannery was so impressive in the 2009 Grand Slam season that he earned a call-up to the Lions squad but once again injury, this time to his elbow, prevented him from taking part.

Link: Farewell, Fla: Five of Jerry Flannery's finest moments