Former Czech Republic international Jan Koller has announced his retirement from football at the age of 38.

Powerhouse forward hangs up boots after continuous injuries

Former Czech Republic international Jan Koller has announced his retirement from football at the age of 38.

Koller had one year remaining on his contract with French third division side AS Cannes, but persistent injuries have forced the striker to call it a day.

"Since April I have had enough of the injury problems," the 6ft 7in former Sparta Prague forward told Czech news agency CTK.

"First of all I struggled with my calf muscle. Then I had problems with my heart and when I was in preparation for the new season I tore a thigh muscle.

"That was the last warning that it was time for me to retire. I was preparing myself for this moment for a long time and now all has fallen off me and I am looking to the future."

Also a former Borussia Dortmund and Anderlecht striker, Koller is Czech Republic's top scorer of all time, with 55 goals in 91 appearances.

He represented his country in four major tournaments before retiring from international football in 2009.

Koller, who also turned out for Monaco, will continue to reside in France and plans to take up a year-long course to perfect the French language before seeking a backroom role in football.

I was preparing myself for this moment for a long time and now all has fallen off me and I am looking to the future.Jan Koller