Former Chelsea and England midfielder Frank Lampard has announced his retirement from football.
The 38-year-old left New York City FC when his contract expired in November 2016 and was strongly linked with a return to English football.
But Lampard has called time on illustrious career with immediate effect.
Lampard wrote on his official Instagram account: "After 21 incredible years, I have decided that now is the right time to finish my career as a professional footballer.
"Whilst I have received a number of exciting offers to continue playing at home and abroad, at 38 I feel now is the time to begin the next chapter in my life.
"I’m immensely proud of the trophies I’ve won, of representing my country over 100 times and of scoring more than 300 career goals."
Lampard started his career at West Ham but joined Chelsea in 2001 and went on to become a legend at Stamford Bridge, scoring 211 goals to become the west London club's all-time top scorer.
In Pictures | Frank Lampard
Lampard also excelled at international level and won a total of 106 senior international caps for the Three Lions.
Lampard also confirmed that he is set to embark on a coaching career, having taken the early stages of his qualifications with the FA.
"Looking forward, I'm grateful to the FA for the opportunity to study for my coaching qualifications and I look forward to pursuing the off-field opportunities that this decision opens."
