Schmeichel announces retirement

Schmeichel has been plagued by a calf injury

Manchester City goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has announced he will retire at the end of the season.

The 39-year-old has been frustrated by a persistent calf injury which has disrupted his season.

The former Manchester United keeper believes he cannot maintain the levels of fitness needed in the Premiership.

"My body is not happy any more," Schmeichel told the Sunday Times newspaper.

"I always promised I'd move on when this moment arrived. It's time to end my playing career."

Born: 18/11/1963

Clubs: Hvidovre, Brondby, Man Utd, Sporting Lisbon, Aston Villa, Man City

Man Utd Honours:
Champions League
5 Premiership titles
3 FA Cups
1 League Cup

City boss Kevin Keegan continued to place his faith in the Dane, valuing the vast experience he brought to the team.

But despite his manager's confidence, Schmeichel has decided against accepting a one-year extension to his contract.

"It has taken a month of soul-searching to make this decision, the most difficult of my life," Schmeichel revealed.

Match report: Man City 0-0 Boro

"It's hard to accept that at Maine Road on May 11 the final whistle will sound on more than just another game and another season.

"There's a time to let go, to get on with my life. It's over."

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