Richards retires

Tottenham defender Dean Richards has called time on his professional career.

Richards has not played for Spurs this season after fearing in November that he may have a brain tumour.

Those worries were dispelled, with Richards having been suffering from an inner ear problem, but he has been unable to regain his fitness.

He rejected a move to former club Southampton during the January transfer window after being informed he could leave White Hart Lane.

But, after examining his test results again, the 30-year-old has made the decision that it is in his best interests to retire from playing football.

"Football has been a huge part of my life and it has been a miserable time for me sitting out this season and awaiting test results," Richards told the club's official website.

"I am obviously deeply disappointed to be giving up the sport I love but have discussed the results with my family and my representatives and it is the only choice.

"I should like to thank the club, the medical team and my team-mates for all the support they have given me through this."

Spurs' sporting director Frank Arnesen paid tribute to Richards, whose last appearance for the club was against Aston Villa in May 2004.

Arnesen said: "It is always a sad day when you lose a good player from the game.

"Dean has shown great character through a trying time and I know he was frustrated at his level of play in his last few games, when clearly he was not at his fittest.

"He had some fine moments for Spurs and we all wish him well in the future."

Richards started his career with Bradford City before moving to Wolves and then Southampton prior to signing for Spurs in September 2001 in an £8 million deal.

He was occasionally on the cusp of breaking into the England squad and made 407 appearances during his career, scoring 25 goals.