My dream is to manage my childhood club Arsenal - Asante

After a 19-year career at the top of the women's game, former England international Anita Asante will retire at the end of the season.

The final game for the Villa defender will be against the Blues in the Women's Super League.

He won 71 caps for England and represented Great Britain at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

She began her career atArsenal before moving abroad.

In 2007, Asante was a part of the team that became the only women's team from England to win the trophy.

  • 'Ally and activist' Asante on 19-year football journey

When I look back, I'm really proud of what I've been able to do and what I've been able to experience.

It has been an unbelievable journey. I am so proud to have been a part of that and to have shared it with so many amazing players and coaches. Over the years, I have learned a lot from them.

It was a difficult decision to make, but I feel very lucky that I am in control of what I want to do at this point in my life.

Between 2003 and 2008 Asante won five league titles and four FA Cups.

She played for Sky Blue FC in the United States for three years before moving to Sweden to play for Goteborg.

Asante moved back to Chelsea in the summer of 2018, after competing in the Swedish Damallsvenskan league.

After captaining the England under-19s, the respected centre-back made her senior international debut in 2004, and went on to play in five major tournaments, as well as the Olympic Games.

'A hero of our game' - reaction

Some people forget that women's football has been growing in this country for many years and it's because of people like Nicen Neetz that we now are in a position to excel and live our dreams as professional footballers. Thank you for your kind words, you have an amazing career.

Congratulation on an amazing career Neetz, from an athlete such as England's Leah Williamson. I used to love watching you when I was a kid, and now I am honoured to have shared a pitch with you. All the best in your next step.

From being a 16-year-old aspiring to be like you, to having one of the greatest honours of going to battle with you week in week out! The game is in a better place, and I can't wait to see you smash your next challenge! Thank you for everything.

An amazing player, the best team-mate you could ask for. Thank you for all that you have done and your words of wisdom, an honor to share the pitch with you and some unforgettable times. You are a hero of our game and will be missed.

I remember first seeing you play for England and was impressed by how good you were. Strong, technical, read the game. There is a voice for minorities in football. The game has been brought into a stronger position by you.