FORMER Rangers defender Jon Flanagan has announced that he has retired from football.

The ex-Liverpool hero has called him on his playing days after suffering from a knee problem for the past 14 months.

Flanagan played for Rangers from 2018 until 2020 and made over 20 appearances for the club.

He also played for England through the youth ranks and made his senior debut in 2014 under Roy Hodgson. 

Announcing his retirement on social media, Flanagan said: "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 Im 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 that most others can only wish for, I would like to thank everyone for their support over my journey, especially my girlfriend, family, friends, 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."

Steven Gerrard sent his well wishes adding: "Congrats on your career. Top player, top lad."