Wales captain and ex-Arsenal star Ramsey retires from football

Wales football captain Aaron Ramsey has retired from professional football with immediate effect.

The 35-year-old former Arsenal midfielder is now expected to start a career in coaching.

Ramsey is regarded as one of Wales' greatest players, scoring 21 goals in 86 appearances and playing for his country at three major tournaments.

"This has not been an easy decision to make," the player said on social media.

In a statement Ramsey thanked Wales fans and the clubs he played for over his career.

"Firstly, I want to start with Wales.

"It has been my privilege to wear the Welsh shirt and experience so many incredible moments in it.

"It would not have been possible without the incredible input of all the managers I have played under and all the staff who have helped me in many ways."

Ramsey played an important role in Wales' historic run to the Euro 2016 semi-finals.

He started his career at Cardiff City before a 2008 move to Arsenal, where he won three FA Cups - scoring the winning goal in two of those finals - during his 11 years with the Gunners.

He also played for Italian club Juventus, and Nice in France, as well was a loan at Rangers and a stint at Pumas in Mexico.