I have played my heart out every time and I've achieved from a young age my dream.

Blues' Club Captain Paul Robinson has announced his decision to finish playing at the end of the current season.

The defender's existing deal is due to expire in the summer and Robinson has decided that is the right to hang up his boots after 22 years in the professional game.

Robinson, 39, has been used sparingly by Blues this season, and has played just three First Team games, with his last start coming back in August as a substitute in the EFL Cup home defeat to Bournemouth.

However, for much of this campaign Robinson has been working alongside Richard Beale as a coach with the Club's Development Squad.





He also stepped into the breach to assist Caretaker Manager Lee Carsley at First Team level after the sacking of Harry Redknapp.

The former England Under-21 international initially joined Blues as a free agent on a short-term deal in September 2012, but this was made permanent after a string of impressive displays.

Since playing his first match for the Club in the Championship away win at Brighton & Hove Albion in September 2012, he has gone on to make a further 173 appearances and score four goals.

A born leader, his performances during the 2013/14 campaign saw Robinson rewarded with the Player of the Season and Players' Player of the Season accolades.

Robinson's playing career began at his hometown club Watford, where he spent seven years before moving onto West Bromwich Albion, where he spent six seasons.

He then joined Bolton Wanderers and had a short spell on loan at Leeds United.

In total he has racked up an impressive 763 career appearances for his clubs.

Announcing his retirement on his social media accounts, the popular defender said: "At the end of the season it will be bye to playing but the start of a new exciting chapter.

"I have loved wearing every shirt with pride.

"I have played my heart out every time and I've achieved from a young age my dream."

Robinson is a UEFA licensed coach and has also been working passing on his vast knowledge and expertise to the Academy's younger age groups on an ad hoc basis.





WATCH: A short montage of Paul Robinson in a Blue shirt.



