Fabrice Muamba retires

Bolton midfielder, Fabrice Muamba, on Wednesday announced his retirement from professional football.

Muamba said he was being forced to retire based on the recommendation of his medical team.

A statement on the club’s website quoted him as saying he was “devastated” but “thankful.”

The 24-year-old said, “Football has been my life since I was a teenage boy and it has given me so many opportunities.

“Above all else, I love the game and count myself very lucky to have been able to play at the highest level.

“While the news is devastating, I have much to be thankful for,” the statement said.

The Congolese had collapsed for 78 minutes on the pitch at the White Hart Lane during an FA Cup match between Bolton and Tottenham in March.