Jack Wilshere: Former Arsenal and England midfielder announces his retirement from professional football

Jack Wilshere has decided to retire from football.

Wilshere left AGF after less than five months and stated that he was considering his next step.

He played 14 league games for the club after joining in February.

He had been without a club since he was released by Bournemouth in the summer of 2016 and had been training with a number of teams in order to stay in top shape.

Wilshere posted a lengthy post on social media with the caption "I've lived my dream". Thanks to you all.

I'm retiring from playing football.

It has been an unbelievable journey filled with so many incredible moments and I feel very lucky to have been a part of it. When I was a boy, I kicked a ball around in the garden and captained my beloved team at the World Cup. I have fulfilled my dreams.

It has been difficult to accept that my career has been slipping in recent times due to reasons outside of my control while I feel that I still have a lot to give.

I have always wanted to play at the highest level, but I didn't think I'd be here at times.

Having had time to reflect and walk with those closest to me, I know that now is the right time and I look back on my career with pride.

When I was a small boy growing up in Hitchin, playing at the very highest level with some of the best players in the world, winning FA Cup, captaining my club and representing my country were beyond my imagination.

If it wasn't for the love and support of so many people, I don't think I'd have a career like I have.