Aston Villa striker Luc Nilis has announced his
retirement from football.
The Belgian international has been forced to admit defeat in his fight to regain full fitness after suffering a double fracture to his right leg in September's Premiership clash with Ipswich.
The 33-year-old sustained the injury in a collision with Ipswich keeper Richard Wright and there were immediate fears that it would signal the end of his playing days.
Nilis, who has been recuperating in Belgium, received medical opinions which stated that he would never retain the level of fitness required for him to return to the Premier League.
Nilis said today: "For the short period I was employed by Aston Villa I enjoyed every minute and am bitterly disappointed I could not continue to score goals.
"But having taken medical advice I will be unable to continue."
PA