Hull City midfielder Ryan Mason has announced his retirement today.

He suffered a fractured skull in January 2017 after clashing heads with Chelsea defender Gary Cahill.

Mason underwent lifesaving surgery after the game during which doctors inserted 14 metal plates and 42 staples into his skull after he suffered a bleed on the brain.

And despite being desperate to play again, the ex-Tottenham star has admitted defeat in his battle at the age of just 26.

In a statement released on Tuesday morning, Mason said: “I can confirm that following specialist medical advice I am having to retire from playing professional football.

“I have worked tirelessly in order to be able to return to the pitch. Unfortunately, having taken expert medical advice I now have no option but to retire due to the risks involved given the nature of my injury.

“I am and always will be eternally grateful for the incredible network of people around me who have helped me to recover from what was a life-threatening injury in January 2017.

“Thank you to my amazing fiancé, Rachel, who has been by my side and lived every single day with me since the injury, helping to give me the strength I've needed no matter how tough things got. We are so lucky to have now become the proud parents of our perfect baby boy George.

“To my Mum, Dad, sisters, and all of my family and close friends, thank you for everything. Despite how tough it's been and the challenges I've faced along the way you've all been there supporting me and words will never truly do justice to how grateful I am for your love and support."