Freddy Ljungberg retires from football

Swedish midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg has announced his retirement from football at the age of 35.

The former Sweden international has been searching for a new club since leaving Japanese side Shimizu S-Pulse in February 2012, but having failed to find one he has now decided to retire from football altogether.

“It’s still fun to play the big games, but when you no longer have the motivation for training then it’s time to call it quits,” he told Swedish broadcaster SVT. “This is a decision which has come about during a six-month absence.

“During my career I’ve had the possibility to play with some of the best players in the world, as well as some of the best teams. I’m grateful for everything football has given me and all of the fantastic people I’ve met during my career.”

Ljungberg has enjoyed a very successful career, and he was part of the famous Arsenal team that dominated English Premier League at the turn of the century.

The Swede never quite managed to resurrect his career after leaving the Gunners in the summer of 2007, having failed to make a major impact at West Ham, Seattle Sounders, Chicago Fire, Celtic and Shimizu S-Pulse.

Ljungberg has amassed a total of 75 Sweden caps since making a debut in 1998 and has scored 14 goals for the national team.

The midfielder has represented his country at no less than five major tournaments between 2000 and 2008.