Czech star Jankulovski retires

Former AC Milan left-back Marek Jankulovski has announced his retirement due to a long-standing knee problem.

Knee problem forces 34-year-old to hang up his boots

Former AC Milan left-back and Czech Republic international Marek Jankulovski has announced his retirement due to a long-standing knee problem. The 34-year-old returned to boyhood club Banik Ostrava last October after 11 years in Serie A with Napoli, Udinese and Milan. But he managed just eight minutes for Ostrava before damaging ligaments in his left knee for a second time. Jankulovski, who helped the Czech Republic finish third in Euro 2004, announced his decision on Tuesday. He said: "It is difficult to think of a return after such two serious injuries.

Health

"Basically, when I injured it again I decided to end my football career. I just needed time to come to terms with it. Health and my family are more important. "My career was successful at both club and international level. The end is bitter but I'm satisfied with what I have achieved." Jankulovski, who won 78 caps for his country, also lifted the UEFA Champions League for Milan in 2007. Now he is set to become Ostrava's sporting advisor.