Andre Ooijer announces retirement

Former Blackburn Rovers defender Andre Ooijer has confirmed that he will retire at the end of the season.

The 38-year-old, who is currently plying his trade in his native Holland with Ajax, revealed that it is a decision that had been a long time coming.

"In recent months I have already hinted several times that I felt that I could not muster another season," he told the club's official website.

"My role has also changed in recent years. I had a cup of coffee with the coach last week and told him how I feel about it."

Ooijer has won six Dutch league titles during stints with Ajax and PSV Eindhoven.