Former Liverpool defender Jon Flanagan has announced his retirement at the age of 29.

The ex-Reds right-back has suffered with several long-term injuries during his career.

Flanagan was outstanding for Liverpool during the 2013/2014 season, when they almost won the Premier League under Brendan Rodgers.

However, he struggled after gaining a permanent move to Rangers in 2018, and went on to play for Sporting Charleroi in Belgium.

He released the following statement: "Unfortunately after careful consideration I have made the toughest decision I'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 many others can only wish for.

“I would like to thank everyone for their support over my journey, especially my girlfriend, family, 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."