Peter Lovenkrands retires after successful 16-year career

Former Newcastle striker Peter Lovenkrands has confirmed his retirement from football at the age of 34.

Denmark international Lovenkrands moved to Scotland in 2000 and spent six seasons with Rangers, where he won two Scottish Premier League titles, one Scottish Cup and three League Cups.

After a spell in Germany with Schalke he joined Newcastle in 2009 and, just as he did at Ibrox, became a fans' favourite as he played a big part in helping them secure promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

He spent three seasons at St James' Park before joining Birmingham City, which proved to be his final club.

Lovenkrands said on Twitter: “Today I announce my retirement as a football player, I am proud of all the things I have achieved in my career.

All my dreams as a young boy came true and I am so proud of that.

“Making history with my goals for Rangers in the Champions League, league titles, last minute cup winner in the Old Firm and Schalke 04’s player’s player of the season.

“Helping get Newcastle back in the Premier League was amazing and playing for my country in a World Cup and European Championship.

“All my dreams as a young boy came true and I am so proud of that.

“I want to thank all my team-great times for the great memories, and I want to thank some of the coaches and medical staff for looking after me.

“And I want to thank all the fans that have supported me my whole career I will never forget it!

“But most of all I want to thank my wife and kids family and friends for being there through the good and the bad times and being understanding when missing Christmas, New Years, birthdays etc, so thank you.

“It’s time for new things and I have been enjoying doing TV work and hoping to do a lot more.”