Craig Bellamy has announced his retirement from football at the age of 34.
The striker, who finished his career with hometown club Cardiff City, brings to an end a 17-year senior career that took in spells at some of the biggest clubs in England, Wales and Scotland.
“It’s been on my mind to finish playing for the last couple of years, but this time I’ve had to make a decision. I’ve had to listen to my body,” said Bellamy.
“Usually, whenever I went into a new season I set myself a specific challenge. For last couple of years, that challenge was just to be able to get out there on the pitch and be able to play.
“I guess over the years I’ve become accustomed to the pain from various injuries, but for the last three to four years I’ve been on anti-inflammatories every day.
“I’m not sure my body will think that’s a wise thing in due course, but it kept me playing for that period.
“However, the time has come to stand aside and say enough.”
Bellamy started his career at Norwich before moving on to Coventry, Newcastle, Celtic, Blackburn, Liverpool, West Ham, Manchester City, and finishing up with another spell at Anfield between two separate stints at Cardiff City.
He also played 78 times for Wales.
