Michael Ballack announces retirement

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

The 34-year-old has been without a club since leaving Bayer Leverkusen in the summer, but had been linked with a move to Australia.

However, he has released a statement confirming his position, saying: "At 36 years old I can look back on a long and wonderful time in professional football, which I could never have dreamed of as a child.

"It was a privilege to work with world class coaches and fantastic players. Now I am looking forward to a new chapter in my life."

Ballack, who made 98 appearances for his country, also played for Chelsea and Bayern Munich.