Former Norwich City goalkeeper Robert Green has announced his retirement from football.

The Pink Un: In between the sticks for City against Aston Villa in the Premier League in 2004 Picture: ArchantIn between the sticks for City against Aston Villa in the Premier League in 2004 Picture: Archant (Image: Evening News © 2004)

Green, 39, had spent the last year at Chelsea but did not make an appearance, although was in Baku for Wednesday's 4-1 Europa League final win over Arsenal.

The former England keeper started his career at Norwich and played for West Ham, Leeds and QPR while he also made 12 appearances for his country.

He said in a statement: "Following an incredible evening in Baku on Wednesday and after a 23 year career spanning three decades, I've decided that now is the right time to announce my retirement from professional football.

"Being part of the group and celebrations with such a special squad of players after winning the Europa League seems a fitting way to end what's been an amazing journey for me in the game."

The Pink Un: Robert Green tangles with Fulham's Luis Boa Morte at Craven Cottage in 2005 Picture: ArchantRobert Green tangles with Fulham's Luis Boa Morte at Craven Cottage in 2005 Picture: Archant (Image: Archant © 2004)

Green made his first team debut for City in 1999 keeping a clean sheet in a derby draw with Ipswich Town at Carrow Road. When Andy Marshall controversially headed to Portman Road in the summer of 2001, Green made the number one shirt his own and went on to make 241 appearances. He was named in the PFA Team of the Year when the Canaries won the old First Division title in 2004.

Green started the 2010 World Cup as England's first choice goalkeeper, but was dropped following the opening 1-1 draw with the United States after allowing Clint Dempsey's tame shot to creep through his legs.

Green added: "I've had the joy of representing some fantastic clubs, all of whom have helped to shape me in their own varying way.

"Thank you to all of the fans and everybody connected with Norwich City, West Ham United, Queens Park Rangers, Leeds United, Huddersfield Town and Chelsea. Representing my country will always be one of my proudest achievements and I feel honoured to have played for England.

The Pink Un: Robert Green during his time at Norwich City Picture: ArchantRobert Green during his time at Norwich City Picture: Archant

"Thank you to all of the managers, coaches and staff I've worked with and thank you to all of the teammates that I've shared a dressing room with over the years.

"Collectively we've shared some amazing times and I leave the game with memories that I'll always treasure."