Steph Houghton announces she will RETIRE at the end of the season

Former England captain Steph Houghton has announced her intention to retire at the end of the season.

The 35-year-old Manchester City defender, who won 121 caps for the Lionesses, will end her playing career at the end of the Women's Super League campaign.

Houghton began playing for Sunderland in 2002 and has also represented Leeds Carnegie and Arsenal before moving to City 10 years ago.

She said on her official website: 'There is no easy way to say it, but I am retiring from football at the end of the current WSL season.

'Taking the decision to retire is such a difficult thing to do. Whilst age comes to every player, it makes it no easier having to say the words out loud. Football has been my life, my passion and I have loved the career I have had.

'I am excited for whatever comes next but, in the meantime, I remain focused on giving everything I have left for Manchester City over the next two months.'