Former Premier League and England defender RETIRES at the age of 41... as he decides to call it a day after failing to find a new club following his release by Stoke at the end of last season

Former Premier League and England defender Phil Jagielka has announced his retirement from football.

The 41-year-old has been without a club since he was released by Championship side Stoke at the end of last season.

He had hoped to join a new club for the current campaign, but has decided to call time on his 23-year professional career after failing to do so.

The centre-back made over 750 appearances at club level for four different clubs and won 40 caps for England between 2008 and 2016 - scoring three goals for his country.

He told Sky Sports: 'As you can tell by the timing, I've tried to put myself out there for a little bit longer to see if anyone fancied giving me an opportunity to extend it, but they didn't and I understand that.

'I'm super proud of myself to play at 40.

'If you'd have sat me down as a 15 or 16-year-old kid after being told I wasn't good enough and then fast forward telling me I'd scored at 40, played at 40 and had the career I've had then I don't think I can have too many complaints.'

Jagielka came through the ranks at Sheffield United and made 287 appearances for the Blades between 2000 and 2007. 

He left for Everton in a £4m deal in July 2007, making 385 appearances for the Toffees. 

After leaving Goodison Park, he had one final spell at Sheffield United, before joining Derby and finishing career at Stoke. 

His England career was best remembered for starting in two of England's three at the 2014 World Cup. The Three Lions failed to win a game and crashed out of a group that included Costa Rica, Italy and Uruguay.

Jagielka also took to Instagram where he wrote: 'All good things come to an end and  my playing career is done.

'Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I would get to play football at the highest level for some amazing clubs as well as my country.

'It's been an absolute honour to step onto the grass for every match and I have so many people to thank for that.

'Firstly I would like to thank every player, manager, coach, member of staff and fan who has played their part in my long football journey.

'I'll be forever grateful for your support.

'Most importantly though I would like to thank my family and close friends who have stood by me throughout my career and shared in what has been something I'll never forget.'