Aston Villa captain Martin Laursen has explained his decision to retire.

The former Denmark international, who made 53 appearances for his country, said: "I cannot recover from my knee injury so I have to retire.

"Over the last few weeks I've had to decide whether to go ahead with another operation or to retire. My decision was to retire as it would have been a very big and difficult operation. At this point it is better for my health and future life."

Laursen, who admitted the last two seasons have been the best of his playing career, added: "It is so strange, so weird that I've made an announcement that I will no longer play again whereas half a year ago I was flying.

"I was in the best shape of my life and playing every game. It is weird and I am really sad.

"Football has always been my life. I've been a professional since 1997 and done nothing else. I am looking at the positives that I returned from my previous operation and was playing the best football of my life.

"I'm now almost 32 and you cannot play football forever. You have to stop some time."

Laursen paid credit to Villa manager, Martin O'Neill, who himself had to quit playing because of a knee injury.

He said: "Martin O'Neill has been very helpful and has allowed me to take my time in making a decision.

"I can honestly say there have been more positives than negatives since he took over as manager."