Former Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford has announced his retirement.
The 35-year-old hangs up his boots after a storied career which included a memorable four-year spell at Elland Road in which he netted two of the biggest goals in the club's recent history.
Beckford, who spent the last seasons at crisis-hit Bury, confirmed the news that he was hanging up his boots on Instagram.
"Now, as many of you may know, my journey as a professional footballer has unfortunately come to an end," he posted.
"The operations I've had over the last couple of years have gotten the better of me. Football has given me all and more than I could've ever dreamed of and for all those that I have had the privilege of meeting and sharing any and all moments with, I will be eternally grateful!"
Beckford signed for Leeds from non-league Wealdstone in 2006 and after initial loan spells at Carlisle and Scunthorpe United, he led the line alongside Luciano Becchio following the club's relegation to League One.
During Leeds' three years in the third tier Beckford netted 72 league goals on his way to 85 strikes in 152 appearances in all competitions before he departed to Premier League Everton in 2010.
There are two huge goals in which his time at Leeds United will be remembered for, however.
The first came in January 2010 at Old Trafford, when he netted the winner against Manchester United to condemn Sir Alex Ferguson to his first third round defeat in the competition as Red Devils boss. That goal is still sung about by fans at Elland Road to this day, but arguably a more important strike followed at the end of that campaign when he scored the winner against Bristol Rovers to secure promotion back to the Championship.
Beckford had stints at Leicester, Huddersfield, Bolton and Preston after his year at Goodison Park but has now called it a day after an injury-hit season last time out.
Leeds United were quick to wish Beckford a happy retirement on Tuesday morning and Whites fans were quick to add their thanks to their former hero.
