Nemanja Vidic, one of the stalwarts of Alex Ferguson's final years at Manchester United, has retired from football.

The Serbian defender made his name at Red Star Belgrade and Spartak Moscow before heading to the Premier League.

He played at United from 2006 to 2014, winning five Premier League titles and a Champions League winners' medal in 2008.

But he struggled to settle in after a move to Inter Milan, and after recently being released by Inter boss Roberto Mancini he has now decided to retire rather than find a new club.

"The time has come for me to hang up my boots," he said in a statement.

"The injuries I have had in the last few years have taken their toll.

"I would like to thank all the players I have played with, all the managers and staff I have worked with, and say a big 'thank you' to the fans for their support over the years."'

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