Paulo Wanchope has been forced to hang up his boots because of ongoing concerns over his fitness.

The former Manchester City, West Ham and Derby striker has played for nine clubs in seven countries in a 12-year career.

Wanchope scored 45 goals in 75 international appearances for Costa Rica and made the decision to call time on his career as he felt he could no longer perform at the level he desired.

The 31-year-old said: "I always gave 100 per cent to do things as well as possible. Sadly, my last performances were far from good enough and I have taken the decision to retire.

"It was a difficult decision to take, but it has to be taken. The truth is that in the last six months I had to make a great effort to recover after games and training. I gave everything and we all know about my knee problems.

"Of course, I will continue my career related to football as I have a great passion for this sport."