Spanish midfielder Michu retires

Spanish footballer Miguel Perez Cuesta, better known as 'Michu', announced his retirement on Tuesday.

The former Swansea City player took the decision in the light of his ankle injury that forced him to undergo surgery in 2013 and disrupted his career, reports Efe.

In an emotional farewell message, the Spanish second tier Ovied's player said: "According to medical reports, the current situation of my right ankle has come to a point where it has forced me to say goodbye to you as a professional football player today."

"Even though I am saying farewell to you with much sorrow, I know that we will always be united. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of the magical moments that you have given to me during all this time," he added.

Michu, 31, started his career at his home town club Oviedo, and played for Spanish Celta and Rayo Vallecano before joining Premier League side Swansea City in 2012.

He was injured at the peak of his career after moving to Swansea and making his debut for the Spanish national team, and was forced to undergo the first of many surgeries.

--IANS

sam/pur/vt