Former Chelsea star Michael Ballack has retired from professional football

Former Germany captain Michael Ballack has announced his retirement from professional football.

"As a child, I could never have even dreamt of having such a career. "It was a privilege working with first-class coaches and fantastic team-mates. Of course I am going to miss running out in front of 80,000 spectators or scoring goals. "The last few months without playing football have shown me that the time had come to give it up. "I am now looking forward to the next chapter in my life and would like to thank my family and all the amazing people who have supported me, pushed me and accompanied me. "They have made a major contribution to my success."