THE Melbourne Football Club wishes to advise that Heritier Lumumba has retired from AFL Football. Lumumba made the decision to retire following specialist medical advice.

Melbourne Football Club's General Manager of Football Josh Mahoney said: "To receive medical advice that he should no longer play the game he loves has been really challenging for Heritier. Based on this advice, we have agreed to release Heritier from his 2017 contract and are supportive of his decision to retire from the game.”

"Although he can no longer play AFL football, we are pleased that the latest tests have shown that Heritier has been cleared of having any ongoing concussion symptoms and that there are no signs of long term damage.

"We have said all along that the Club has a very diligent concussion management process and as a result, we are confident in how we cared for and managed Heritier during 2016.

"Heritier recently requested some time at the start of this pre-season to gather additional information about his health and we were very supportive of him undertaking this process.

"We thank Heritier for everything he has given to the Melbourne Football Club. He leaves the game as a 200-plus game player, an All-Australian and a premiership player with the Collingwood Football Club, and we wish him all the best for the future.

Lumumba thanked those that have helped him during his time in the game and is looking forward to the next phaseof his life.

"At the advice of several medical specialists, I am retiring from football. My love of this game has inspired me to work hard and give my best efforts to my team. As I reflect on my career, I am grateful for the support I've received and how that support has enabled me to grow as an athlete and as a man. I look forward to expanding other areas of my careeras I create new endeavours. I believe the Melbourne Football club has a bright future ahead, and I wish them the very best,” said Lumumba.