Former Chelsea midfielder of Nigerian descent Tom Taiwo has decided to retire from professional football at the age of 29.

Taiwo spent his formative years as a footballer with the youth teams of Farsley Celtic and Leeds United before joining Chelsea in 2006, and also wore the jerseys of Port Vale, Carlisle United, Falkirk and Hamilton Academical.

He was a member of the England side, along with Victor Moses, that reached the quarterfinals of the 2007 FIFA U17 World Cup, playing against Brazil and New Zealand in the group stage.

Writing on Instagram, Taiwo stated : ''Unfortunately, I have taken the tough decision to announce my retirement from football.

"Three injury-hit seasons in succession have left me struggling to perform, but more importantly, feel the way I want to.

"On and off the pitch, I have been fortunate to deal with great people at great clubs and without your help couldn't have fulfilled the career I have. Thank-you, I will always be grateful.

"Most importantly to the people that matter the most - my family. You've given me more support than I could ever ask for and for that and much more I love you all.

"Onto the next chapter - TT."

Tom Taiwo was an influential member of the Carlisle United side that beat Brentford 1-0 in the final of the EFL Trophy in 2011, a year after he departed Chelsea.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : hamiltonacciesfc.co.uk