Schmeichel has been plagued by a calf injury
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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
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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.
"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."