Former Brighton & Hove Albion defender Liam Rosenior has officially announced his retirement, bringing an end to his 17-year playing career.



Rosenior ended his career at Albion, after enjoying successful spells at Hull City, Reading and Fulham and coming through the ranks at Bristol City. During his time with the Robins, Rosenior won the 2003 Football League Trophy, scoring the second goal in a 2-0 victory over Carlisle United.



He also enjoyed loan periods at Torquay United and Ipswich Town and gained international recognition too, winning four caps for the England Under-20 side and seven for England Under-21 team.



The Wandsworth-born thirty-four-year-old paid tribute to everyone who has followed him throughout his career, and said, “Undoubtedly, it is a sad day for any professional footballer when the time comes to stop playing. However, I have enjoyed a long career and feel privileged to have earned a living doing something that I love. I am so lucky to have lived my childhood dream and I am now ready for the next chapter.



“There are a great many people and clubs to thank. Firstly, to every member of my wonderful family, most notably Mum, Dad, my brother Daron, my wife Erika and my four beautiful children: your love, belief and support was always a source of huge strength for me – I hope I made you proud.



“To the managers, coaches, players, backroom staff and supporters of every club I have had the good fortune to represent, I sincerely thank you for the lessons, happiness, memories and incredible support I have received in my career. I will never forget it.



“Now I am just as excited as I was as a child. I am embarking on a new chapter in my life with a new coaching role at Brighton and new media analyst role with Sky Sports. This could not have been possible without the support of all of the staff at this special club, but namely Tony Bloom, Chris Hughton, John Morling and Simon Rusk for giving me this opportunity. I will do everything I can to repay your faith in my future as a coach. I cannot wait to continue the journey with this fantastic club.”



Rosenior has established himself as one of the most insightful pundits on TV. His appearances as an analyst are set to increase in the upcoming campaign, with his authoritative commentary on the game featuring even more next season.



Additionally, he has now completed his Uefa Pro Licence and will combine his early steps in management with media work. His experience will be boosted when he becomes a professional development phase coach within Albion’s academy, working closely with the under-23 age group.



He added, “As sportsmen, you are conditioned to never give up and to keep looking ahead for the next challenge. For me, this will be to use the knowledge I have gained from the special people throughout my career and help nurture the next generation of footballers at Brighton, as well as providing my perspective of the game as a pundit. I am hugely excited by both and cannot wait to start.”